A North Carolina State University basketball player is facing a misdemeanor assault charge stemming from an altercation with a former girlfriend in which she was struck in the face. The player, Eric Lockett, has also been indefinitely suspended from the team, where he’s a reserve guard.
The incident occurred on Feb. 12 in Lockett’s apartment in Raleigh. Afterward, he reportedly left for practice with the team. The former girlfriend called an Uber. The Uber driver was the one who called the police.
Lockett turned himself in to police on Valentine’s Day. He was released without bond the same day.
Lockett’s former girlfriend has told local media outlets that she struck him first and that he then held her down. Lockett’s attorney also asserts that the 23-year-old reserve guard was trying to restrain the woman when his elbow hit her under the eye.
The woman told a Raleigh television station that she hadn’t intended for the police to get involved and “never wanted it to get this far.” She said, “It was between me and him” and that she didn’t want him to face criminal charges. “I’ve already spoken to multiple police officers and everyone pretty much knows what’s going on,” she said.
Lockett, who joined the N.C. State Wolfpack last year, previously attended Florida International University in Miami. The former girlfriend still lives in Miami.
The N.C. State coach says that due to Lockett’s arrest, the suspension will continue while they “await additional information.”
Arguments between couples can escalate quickly to the point where someone ends up being injured, intentionally or not. It’s essential for authorities to sort out what happened. Things aren’t always as they seem at first glance. If you’re facing a domestic violence-related charge, it’s essential to seek experienced legal guidance to help protect your rights and your reputation.
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