A Texas Department of Public Safety trooper has been dismissed from his game-day duties following an incident with South Carolina players during the Texas A&M football game. The confrontation, captured on video after South Carolina's Nyck Harbor scored a long touchdown, shows the unnamed trooper making physical contact with Harbor and Oscar Hadaway III, which led to the trooper being sent home. DPS is looking into the matter, according to their statement, as first reported by ESPN.
Reaction to the incident sparked furor amongst fans and athletes alike, with NBA superstar LeBron James calling for the trooper's suspension. Craig Greaves, a criminal defense attorney and avid Aggie, expressed outrage, condemning the trooper's actions as "just literally tries to bulldoze both of these kids," in an interview obtained by Fox San Antonio. Greaves also characterized the trooper’s behavior as "a class C assault" and tagged him as "a bully with a badge."
According to the same report by Fox San Antonio, South Carolina head football coach Shane Beamer appreciated that Texas A&M Police handled the situation swiftly, saying, "I appreciate them handling that the right way, and sending him home." The Texas Department of Public Safety has not released the identity of the trooper involved. Meanwhile, former Texas DPS lieutenant Erwin Ballarta highlighted that this kind of behavior is not indicative of the broader law enforcement community, emphasizing the importance of character and integrity in the field.
The situation is still unfolding. Texas A&M Police, who have authority over the case, may file a criminal complaint against the trooper. It’s a complicated issue with legal and ethical questions, and the Texas Department of Public Safety’s Inspector General is continuing to investigate, as per Fox San Antonio.
