ATHENS, Ga. (AP) — Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter was given 12 months probation and a $1,000 fine this week after pleading uncontested misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and racing related to an accident who killed Bulldogs offensive lineman Devin Willock and a recruiting staffer.
Projected as one of the top players in the NFL Draft next month, Carter was convicted in Athens-Clarke County Municipal Court, according to a statement from attorney Kim T. Stephens. Carter must also complete 50 hours of community service and a state-approved defensive driving course, and his driving privileges have been suspended for 120 days.
The state cannot bring additional charges against Carter, the statement said, adding that Carter pleaded “to resolve this matter in the most efficient manner possible.”
Athens-Clarke County Solicitor General Will Fleenor said in a statement that law enforcement has been evaluating whether more serious charges are warranted. Discussions between his office, the district attorney’s office, and the board of prosecutors determined that the traffic violations were appropriate.
The Athens-Clarke County Police Department had issued an arrest warrant for Carter on March 1, alleging he raced his 2021 Jeep Trackhawk against a 2021 Ford Expedition driven by recruiter Chandler LeCroy on January 15. LeCroy, 24, and Willock died in the crash, which happened as Georgia celebrated its second straight national championship with a parade and ceremony.
Stephens’ statement said Carter’s actions did not cause the crash and he would have faced more serious charges had the investigation determined otherwise. The statement also says Carter remained at the scene of the crash and returned even after being told he could leave to answer additional questions.
Carter was not under the influence of alcohol or any other illegal substance, the statement added.
“Mr. Carter continues to mourn the loss of his friends and continues to pray for their families, as well as for the continued healing of his injured friends,” the statement read.
Carter practiced on Georgia’s pro day on Wednesday, but appeared to be cramping and left without speaking to the media.
