Karlos Williams Likely to Be Placed Under Florida State's Title IX Probe Due to Federal Law
ByAs a possible perpetrator in a domestic violence case, Karlos Williams may be subject to a Title IX probe, though Florida State University (FSU) would not comment.
According to the Associated Press, the Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) confirmed it was investigation a domestic violence case involving the Seminoles' running back. The police also said they are moving forward with their investigation even though the complainant filed an affidavit requesting the probe be closed.
FSU would not confirm or deny whether or not Williams will be placed under investigation, citing privacy. However, federal law requires schools to adequately investigate and adjudicate claims of domestic and sexual violence.
"While each set of facts and circumstances is different, as a general matter notice of any Title IX-related issues would prompt an investigation," Browning Brooks, an FSU spokeswoman, told the AP.
Brooks also said the school reported the domestic violence claim to the TPD, in compliance with the federal Title IX law. FSU is currently under federal investigation for violating Title IX in the case of Jameis Winston. The school is accused of covering up or ignoring the sexual assault allegations against the Seminoles' quarterback.
Nathan Prince, an attorney representing Williams' accuser, told ESPN his client never contacted the TPD and that FSU did so after noticing her allegations of abuse on social media. The woman is pregnant with her and Williams' second child together, though the two are reportedly no longer living together.
"Apparently, FSU passed the information along to the Tallahassee Police Department," Prince said. "There wasn't a formal request by [the woman] to police. I don't know if the administration contacted police and told them they needed to take a look at it."
FSU head football coach Jimbo Fisher said Williams will play Thursday night against Louisville, whether he starts or not. The coach would not elaborate any further, stating the school's statements on the matter covers "all issues."