A Dane County judge ruled Tuesday three University of Wisconsin-Madison students accused of attacking Badger running back Montee Ball could stand trial on felony battery charges.
UW-Madison seniors Wendell Venerable and Deonte Wilson and junior Robert Wilks allegedly attacked Ball at approximately 2 a.m. Aug. 1 as he was walking along University Avenue with friends, according to Madison Police Department spokesperson Joel DeSpain.
The three students pleaded not guilty to the substantial battery charges at their preliminary hearing.
Based on eyewitness accounts and footage from surveillance cameras in the area, Circuit Court Commissioner Todd Meurer determined there is enough probable cause to send the three students to trial.
Assistant District Attorney Michael Finley said Venerable’s defense attorney filed a request for a speedy trial, which should occur within 90 days from Tuesday.
Before a trial is scheduled, Finley said the court will need to set up a pre-trial conference to discuss the case with a judge.
