Story by Kelsey Randolph, Sports Editor
Football player Roman Clay has been suspended from all team activities awaiting legal action because of out of state incidents, according to a statement from Athletics Friday evening.
Clay was charged with five counts of felony burglary and an additional count of loitering and prowling at night, according Fox43 News in Pennsylvania. Fox43 reported that Clay was allegedly going door to door on New Year’s Day in an apartment complex searching for unlocked doors. In several cases the victims were in their apartments and had verbal contact with Clay.
Murray State Athletics said as a result of the information they received, Clay has been suspended and the suspension will remain in effect pending the legal outcome and the department’s own assessment.
“I was extremely disappointed to hear about the charges against Roman,” Head Coach Mitch Stewart said in the statement. “If true, these actions go against not only our values as a football team, but also against those of the entire Murray State community.”
Fox43 reported that Clay was in an off-campus housing unit near Millersville University and several students reported having cash, wallets and other valuables stolen from their unlocked apartments. It was reported that police used video surveillance at the apartments to identify his vehicle.
In response to the allegations, Clay posted a personal statement on his Facebook page Friday evening.
“I am still the same kindhearted, unselfish, and thoughtful kid all of you knew very well,” Clay wrote. “These allegations do not change the character and nobility that I posses as a human being. I just ask that the ones that care, some of which are holding tears and heavy hearts please stay in my corner and see this through. I will remain in school and continue to further my education throughout this process. As I pray for me and my family through this situation I hope you can do the same.”
The News will update the story as more information becomes available.