A Ferris men’s hockey player was arrested on July 12 under charges of sexually assaulting an incapacitated female student.
Ferris junior goalkeeper Darren Smith was arraigned on three felony counts of first-degree criminal sexual misconduct in Mecosta County District Court, according to MLive. Smith could be looking at a life sentence or any term of years set by the court if convicted.
Smith is accused of three sexual acts causing personal injury to a woman who was incapacitated or physically helpless, including oral and digital penetration. According to MLive, Mecosta County Chief Prosecutor Amy Clapp said that the victim of all three charges is the same woman.
Clapp would not comment on the victim’s age, only stating that she is older than 16 and confirming that she is a Ferris student, according to MLive.
Ferris has put out an official statement concerning the incident, which reads in full below:
“Ferris State University has been made aware of an allegation of a sexual assault of a female student. The incident reportedly occurred at an off-campus location during the late-evening, early-morning hours of July 7-8. A male student was arrested as part of the Ferris State University Department of Public Safety (DPS) investigation.
“The University takes all allegations of sexual assault seriously and thoroughly investigates each case. A commitment to maintaining a safe environment for our students, faculty, staff and visitors is our highest priority. This is an ongoing investigation and the University is unable to offer any additional comment.”
Ferris DPS was unable to comment on the investigation.
Smith was released from the Mecosta County jail on a $75,000 bond, according to MLive. Smith is due back in court on Aug. 7 for a probable cause conference. The prosecution will have an opportunity to lay out its case on Aug. 14 during a preliminary exam in Mecosta County District Court, according to MLive.
Ferris’ hockey coach was unable to comment on the situation or Smith’s status on the team.
The 2018-19 roster has yet to be released.