UW-Madison reinstated and reduced sanctions for former Badger football player Quintez Cephus effective immediately.
The decision comes after Cephus was acquitted of two sexual assault counts on Aug. 2.
In a statement from university officials, UW-Madison emphasized their intention to follow proper guidelines while coming to their decision.
Chancellor Rebbecca Blank noted in the statement the university recently received new information regarding the case that helped inform their decision.
“All three of the primary participants in this case are our students, and I know the past year has been painful for everyone involved,” Blank said.
Blank emphasized in her statements the university received previously undisclosed information following the criminal procedures that aided in their decision-making process.
“My decision is based on the availability of substantial new information that wasn’t made available to us during the earlier process. I recognize that some will disagree with this decision,” Blank said.
“To those in our community who have experienced sexual assault, I sincerely hope that there is nothing in this case that will deter you from coming forward for support,” she added. “Our university continues to be prepared to listen and respond.”
Cephus’ lawyer Stephen Mayer conveyed frustration with how long the university took to come to a decision on Cephus’ readmission days after his acquittal.
“The university is sending a clear message that they do not want him to be a student at the university this semester," Mayer said.
It is unclear whether Cephus will spend the fall semester in Madison and with the Badger football program. However, current members of the team have expressed desire for Cephus to rejoin the team, including head coach Paul Chyrst.
“However that plays out, if it's best for Q, then we couldn't be more excited for him that way," Chryst said.
"I'd love for Q to come back,"running back Jonathan Taylor said. "That's our brother, and we would love to have him back on the field flying around with us again."
