Georgia wide receiver Rodarius “Rara” Thomas found himself in legal trouble once again as he was arrested early Friday on charges of cruelty to children and battery. This incident adds to the team’s recent legal issues, making it the second arrest for Thomas in two years.
Thomas, who transferred from Mississippi State, was previously arrested in January 2023 on felony charges of false imprisonment and misdemeanor counts of family violence battery. These charges were later dropped. Details regarding Friday’s arrest, which also involves family violence offenses, were not immediately disclosed, and it is unclear if Thomas has obtained legal representation.
Georgia’s executive associate athletic director for strategic communications, Steven Drummond, stated, “This is a pending legal matter. We will have no further comment at this point.” Head coach Kirby Smart addressed the media at the Southeastern Conference media days on July 16, discussing the team’s efforts to address repeated driving offenses by players.
Smart mentioned that players have faced suspensions and fines from the organization responsible for providing name, image, and likeness payments to the school’s athletes. According to reports, Georgia players have been linked to 24 driving-related violations since 2023, including a tragic crash in January 2023 that claimed the lives of offensive lineman Devin Willock and recruiting analyst Chandler LeCroy shortly after the team’s national championship victory.
Smart expressed disappointment over the off-field incidents, emphasizing that such behavior is not condoned by the team. The coach’s remarks reflect the seriousness of the situation and the impact it has had on the Georgia football program.
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