Georgia wide receiver Rodarius “Rara” Thomas was arrested in the early hours of Friday on charges of cruelty to children and battery, according to Athens-Clarke County jail records. The arrest marks the second legal issue for Thomas in two years, following a previous arrest in 2023.
Thomas, a transfer from Mississippi State, was booked on felony charges of cruelty to children and misdemeanor battery charges. Bail had not been set as of late Friday morning. The previous arrest in 2023 by University of Georgia police resulted in felony charges of false imprisonment and a misdemeanor count of family violence battery, which were later dropped.
Details surrounding Friday's arrest, which also involve family violence offenses, were not immediately available. It remains unclear if Thomas has legal representation at this time. Georgia's executive associate athletic director for strategic communications issued a statement indicating that the matter is pending legal action and declined further comment.
Georgia head coach Kirby Smart addressed the team's recent legal issues at the Southeastern Conference media days on July 16, highlighting efforts to address repeated driving offenses by players. Smart mentioned that players have faced suspensions and fines through the collective that manages name, image, and likeness payments for the school's athletes.
Reports have surfaced of Georgia players being involved in 24 driving-related violations, including DUIs, reckless driving, and speeding. Tragically, a car crash in January 2023 claimed the lives of offensive lineman Devin Willock and recruiting analyst Chandler LeCroy shortly after the Bulldogs secured the national title.
Smart expressed disappointment over the off-field incidents, emphasizing that such behavior is not condoned by the team. The University of Georgia football program continues to navigate these challenges as they strive to uphold their standards both on and off the field.
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