Colbie Young, a senior wide receiver for the University of Georgia Bulldogs, has been at the center of legal proceedings following his arrest on October 8, 2024. Charged with misdemeanor counts of battery and assault on an unborn child, Young’s situation has evolved through various legal and institutional stages, impacting both his athletic career and personal life.
Arrest and Initial Charges
On October 8, 2024, Colbie Young was arrested by Athens-Clarke County police on charges of battery and assault on an unborn child. The arrest stemmed from an incident involving his ex-girlfriend, who alleged that Young physically removed her from his apartment and later squeezed her torso and abdomen, actions she felt were intended to harm her. The police report noted physical evidence of injury, including bruising and discoloration on the woman’s chest and abdomen.
University Response and Legal Proceedings
In response to the arrest, the University of Georgia’s Equal Opportunity Office suspended Young from team activities. However, on November 25, 2024, the office cleared him to return to practice, allowing him to rejoin team activities, though he remained suspended from actual game participation until the legal matters were resolved.
Young’s legal counsel, Kim Stephens, sought to have the charges dismissed, citing an affidavit from the alleged victim retracting her initial statement and requesting the charges be dropped. Despite this, the charges were not dismissed, and Young entered a not guilty plea on December 10, 2024. A trial date was set for May 2025, with the possibility of an earlier hearing if the court schedule permitted.
Impact on Athletic Career
Due to the ongoing legal proceedings, Young was unable to participate in games, including the Sugar Bowl on January 1, 2025. His status remained uncertain, with the university and coaching staff emphasizing the need for the legal process to conclude before any decisions regarding his reinstatement to competition could be made.
Potential Return to Georgia Football
The possibility of Colbie Young returning to the Georgia football program hinges on the outcomes of his legal proceedings. If the charges are dismissed or he is acquitted, it is plausible that he could resume his role with the team. However, any reinstatement would also be subject to university policies and NCAA regulations concerning student-athletes involved in legal matters.
