Former University of Georgia linebacker Adam Anderson, once projected as a first-round NFL Draft prospect, was indicted on a rape charge by an Athens, Georgia, grand jury, according to court records.
Georgia LB Adam Anderson indicted, charged with rape
A true bill of indictment was issued Tuesday by the grand jury with an arraignment scheduled for June 13, per court records. Anderson’s attorney, Steve Sadow, had previously filed a motion to dismiss the case that was denied.
Anderson, who was indefinitely suspended from the Georgia football team last November, plans to plead not guilty, according to a statement issued by Sadow. He was arrested on November 10, 2021, and released on a $25,000 bail.
“Adam respectfully reminds the public and his supporters that he was not permitted by law to participate in the grand jury proceeding, which is totally under the control of the prosecution,” Sadow said. “This means his defense was not presented or argued to the grand jurors. Adam will plead not guilty to the charge and continue his fight in court to clear his name and reputation. Adam once again appeals to the good citizens of Athens-Clarke County to keep an open mind and not prejudge his case.”
A former Bulldogs team captain, Anderson had visited five NFL teams as they continued to monitor his legal situation and worked out for 17 teams at a Georgia high school this spring, according to a league source.
The formal charge stems from an October 29 incident report in which a 21-year-old woman accused Anderson of raping her after a night of drinking.
“The victim stated that she went to a residence after having some drinks and awoke to the suspect penetrating her while she was lying (in) a bed,” the incident report stated. “She stated that it was nonconsensual and that she was able to leave.”
Anderson (6’5”, 230 pounds) recorded 32 tackles, 5 sacks, and 5.5 tackles for loss last season before being suspended. Georgia went on to win the national championship.
During his workout for NFL teams, according to Pro Football Network’s Tony Pauline, Anderson ran the 40-yard dash in the 4.5 range with a 39-inch vertical leap and an 11’1″ broad jump.
A motion was granted in February allowing Anderson to work out for NFL teams after he was previously barred from the region unless he had a reason to be in the area for legal or academic reasons.
At the time of the suspension, Georgia head coach Kirby Smart issued a statement that said: “We are aware of the report and we don’t comment on law enforcement matters, but I’ve been clear about the high standards we have for our student-athletes on and off the field. I will be working closely with our administration to ensure we cooperate fully with all law enforcement and campus protocols.”
At the time of the arrest last fall, Sadow issued a statement about Anderson.
“Adam denies in the strongest terms possible the unfounded and unsupported allegations to sexual misconduct,” the statement said. “He has been notified of the allegations made to the police and to the UGA Equal Opportunity Office.
“In the interest of justice and fairness, Adam hopes and prays the UGA community and public keep an open mind and not prejudge him based on inconsistent, unsubstantiated and baseless accusations.”