Columbia, South Carolina – Ashlyn Watkins, a key player for the South Carolina women’s basketball team, was arrested early Saturday morning. She faces charges of assault and kidnapping after an incident at a University of South Carolina dormitory.
Details of the Incident
According to the arrest warrant from university police, the incident took place at a dormitory on 650 Lincoln Street. The warrant accuses Watkins of assaulting the victim by forcefully grabbing her face, pulling her arms, and pushing her. The warrant further alleges that Watkins picked up the victim against her will, carrying her on her back. Watkins also reportedly grabbed the victim by the head, forcing her to walk down the hallway, controlling her movements and preventing her from leaving. These actions led to the kidnapping charge.
The victim eventually escaped and activated the fire alarm, prompting a swift response from police and firefighters. She received medical treatment for her injuries, which were not life-threatening.
Watkins’ Admission and Arrest
Police informed Watkins of her rights during her arrest. According to the warrant, she admitted to the charges, though specific details of her statement were not made public. The incident was also captured on surveillance video.
Legal Proceedings and Bail
Watkins appeared at a bail hearing on Saturday afternoon, though no cameras were allowed in the courtroom. Prosecutors revealed that Watkins and the victim, reportedly a minor, were familiar with each other. Todd Rutherford, Watkins’ attorney, urged the public to remain patient, stating, “We believe this will ultimately be resolved as a misunderstanding once all the facts are fully known. What we can assure is that Ashlyn did not assault or kidnap anyone.”
Bond and Release
Records indicated that Watkins remained in custody until around 3 p.m. She was granted a $30,000 personal recognizance bond and released around 3:30 p.m. She no longer appears in public jail records.
Watkins’ Role on the Team
A junior on the South Carolina women’s basketball team, Watkins played an important role in the team’s recent national championship run. A resident of Columbia, she graduated from Cardinal Newman High School.
