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Jail advised for Rucker after OWI

October 13, 2010

Rucker

A probation officer for senior cornerback Chris L. Rucker recommended Wednesday the player serve 21 days in jail for breaking his year-long probation that stemmed from involvement in a November 2009 assault, according to court records.

Head coach Mark Dantonio announced Sunday Rucker will be suspended for the team’s next game Saturday against Illinois for violating team rules.

Rucker was charged with operating a vehicle while intoxicated early Sunday morning in East Lansing. The charge violates terms of Rucker’s current probation, which stems from a November 2009 altercation in Rather Hall, in which 15 members of the football team allegedly attacked students and fraternity members. In February, Rucker pleaded guilty to two counts of assault and battery in connection with the incident.

According to court documents, Rucker violated a stipulation of his probation stating he would “not purchase, possess or consume alcohol or illegal drugs.” The probation also prohibits Rucker from going to the bar.

At the time of his arrest, Rucker had a blood alcohol content, or BAC, level of .10 percent. In Michigan, the legal BAC for drivers older than 21 is .08. Rucker turned 22 on Tuesday, according to the date of birth stated on his ticket.

According to court documents, Rucker’s probation officer, Matthew J. Brundage, recommended Rucker’s current probation be continued. Rucker has completed more than seven months of his probation, and is currently scheduled to finish in March. Brundage declined to comment on the matter on Wednesday.

MSU Associate Athletics Director John Lewandowski said Wednesday no further decision on Rucker’s probation has been made.

“(Dantonio) made it very clear that he would not address this further,” Lewandowski said. “Coach said we just got to move forward.”

A copy of the ticket issued to Rucker indicates a traffic crash occurred, but is not specific on the nature or extent of property damage.

Brian Jefferies, Rucker’s attorney, could not be reached for comment Wednesday. Rucker is scheduled to be arraigned Oct. 20 at East Lansing’s 54-B District Court.

Rucker registered his first interception of the season in Saturday’s 34-17 victory over Michigan, and also added three tackles. On the season, Rucker is tied for second on the team with 40 tackles to go with four pass breakups and a forced fumble.

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