UTEP football running back standout Aaron Jones complied with the court to join a pretrial diversion program after he was arrested for driving while intoxicated on Feb. 10 earlier this year. In accordance with this program, the charges for his DWI will be dropped subject to his completion of the program.
The program aims to reform first-time offenders and make sure they do not commit any further crimes. According to the protocol of the program, Jones will have to work with a probation officer, attend courses relating to his DWI, and he will have to take random drug and alcohol tests.
UTEP football head coach Sean Kugler announced that Jones will not face any suspension for any games through the upcoming 2016-17 season.
“Aaron’s situation was handled internally as is the case with every player,” Kugler said. “He has been punished harshly and I consider this matter to be put behind him, he will not be suspended further.”
Although Kugler said in his statement that this subject will be “put behind him,” Jones will have the DWI on his record since he had to waive his rights to get it expunged by entering the court-related program.
The 21-year-old tailback is expected to have a stellar season this upcoming year. Jones has also been named to several preseason award watch lists; and, he was recognized today, Thursday, July 14, with the 2016 Doak Walker Award Watch List. With 2,341 career rushing yards, Jones currently is eighth on the school’s all-time rushers.
Adrian Broaddus may be reached at theprospectordaily.sports.com.
