On March 5, 23-year-old UTEP senior cornerback, Jaylon Shelton, was arrested on charges of assaulting a family or household member by impeding their breathing or circulation, assault of a pregnant person and unlawful restraint. According to court documents, the victim was at Shelton’s apartment on Feb. 28 at around 9 p.m.

Documents state that Shelton became upset with the 21-week pregnant victim for being on her phone. The documentation then states that Shelton allegedly reached over and snatched the phone out of the victim’s hands, and hit the victim on the mouth, causing her to bleed from her lips.

During the alleged assault, Shelton slammed and pinned the victim down on a bed, putting his hands around and squeezing the victim’s neck.

According to a statement provided to the El Paso Police Department by the victim, she was unable to breathe while Shelton had his hands around her neck. The victim did not lose consciousness during the alleged assault and even attempted to get away from Shelton multiple times but was unsuccessful.

According to the documents, Shelton also allegedly locked the victim in the bedroom, which prevented her from leaving the room and apartment.

In a statement given on March 7, by UTEP Deputy Athletic Director Jeff Darby, Shelton has been suspended from the team and will not provide any further comments.

Shelton spent one season playing for the Miners in 2024.

Joseph Montero is a staff reporter for The Prospector and may be reached at [email protected].