College players in Iowa are facing the consequences after they were accused of dabbling in legal sports betting. But at least one player has had his misdemeanor dismissed.
The Associated Press reported yesterday that state prosecutors dismissed the case against Iowa State tight end DeShawn Hanika, who pled not guilty. The reason was that Hanika, who allegedly used online sports betting sites to bet on games under his mother’s account, was not indicted in a timely manner.
Under state law, prosecutors had 45 days to indict Hanika for this Iowa sports betting infracture, which would have been on Sept. 24. They didn't do so until Sept. 28. The court documents showed that Hanika made hundreds of bets, including 70 bets on Iowa State basketball games.
While he will not be charged by the state, he still needs to face the NCAA, which has cracked down on its athletes betting on sports. Hanika has not played for the Cyclones this season and players like offensive lineman Jake Remsburg, who allegedly bet illegally, have been suspended by the NCAA.
More cases pending
More than a dozen athletes from the University of Iowa and Iowa State University have been charged for illegal betting thus far; some have elected for a jury trial, while others have pled guilty for a reduced charge.
There are four cases with current and former Iowa State players currently open. Defensive lineman Isaiah Lee, running back Jirehl Brock, and wrestler Paniro Johnson have trials later this year. Defensive lineman Eyioma Uwazurike, currently with the Denver Broncos, does not have a trial date set.
