(Columbia) - A simple assault charge has been dropped against USC quarterback Blake Mitchell, and USC officials say he will be back with the team soon.
Mitchell was in municipal court Friday when the decision was announced. The charge was dropped when the bouncer, who told police he was punched, decided to withdraw his complaint.
When asked by the judge if he'd been forced into his decision, 19-year-old Kylan Ertzberger said 'no'.
During the proceeding, the judge granted a request by an employee of the bar where the incident took place. It stated that Mitchell could not come back to the bar. However, News19 has spoken with the owner of Pavlov's, Mark King, who says he does not have any problem with Blake Mitchell coming to the bar, as long as he acts o.k. King says he'll send a letter to Mitchell's attorney and ask that the no trespass order against Mitchell be removed.
Mitchell issued a statement through his attorney Friday:
"I would like to apologize to Kylan Ertzberger, the University of South Carolina, my teammates, and coaches. I'm glad to have this behind me so I can focus on my education and the rest of the football season. I truly appreciate the support that this community has shown me."
In response to the court decision, USC officials said Friday that Mitchell will be on the sidelines for this Saturday's game but will not play. He will return to practice next week, however, and will be available for the Florida Atlantic game.
Mitchell was arrested Wednesday. According to an incident report filed with the Columbia Police Department, he got into a fight with Ertzberger in Five Points early that same morning. Ertzberger stated that after the two got into a verbal argument, Mitchell punched him in his left eye with his fist.
Mitchell has been the starting quarterback for USC since the beginnning of the 2005 season.
Spurrier announced Thursday night that senior Syvelle Newton will be the starter for Saturday's game against Wofford.