Accused U of M Wrestlers Released Without Charges

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Two University of Minnesota wrestlers who were arrested on suspicion of criminal sexual conduct were released from jail without charges Tuesday but prosecutors said the investigation remained active.

The Hennepin County attorney's office said in a statement that it had reviewed the allegations against Gable Steveson and Dylan Martinez, but that "no charges can be brought at this time. However, the investigation remains active and prosecutors will continue to work closely with Minneapolis Police Department investigators and review all evidence that comes in over the next 90 days."

Prosecutors faced a noon deadline for charging the men or releasing them.

Steveson, 19, one of the nation's top heavyweights and an aspiring Olympian who placed third at this year's NCAA championships, and Martinez, 21, who is on the team but didn't compete last season, were arrested Saturday night after someone reported that they had been raped and went to a hospital for treatment.

The alleged attack happened shortly after 1 a.m. Saturday, according to a police report released Monday that lacked many details, including the age and gender of the accuser or specifics about what allegedly transpired.

Steveson's attorney, Christa Groshek, said they're "very thankful for the county attorney's careful review. ... He denies the allegations and he continues to maintain his innocence." She added that she still has little information about the allegations because the case is still under investigation.

It isn't clear whether Martinez has an attorney. Groshek said her understanding based on jail records is that he does not. Possible relatives haven't returned messages left by The Associated Press.

The university's athletics department said in a statement over the weekend that it was "aware of a situation involving two of our student athletes" and that the two were suspended from all team activity pending further information. The statement didn't identify the athletes or their sport. A department spokesman didn't immediately return a message seeking comment Tuesday.

Groshek said Steveson was waiting to hear about his status on the team now that prosecutors have decided for now not to charge him. But she said he has the support of his family, friends and teammates.

Steveson was a four-time state champion at Apple Valley High School. He had a 35-2 record this season — his first competing for the Gophers. Martinez didn't wrestle last season and was listed as a redshirt sophomore. He wrestled for Fresno (California) City College before enrolling at Minnesota.