Rape Charges Dismissed Against UTC Wrestler

Rape charges were dismissed by motion of the state against UTC wrestler Justin Otis on Monday morning in General Sessions Court.

His attorney, Jerry Summers, said the dismissal came “after a thorough investigation by the district attorney’s office and the UTC police.”

Attorney Summers said the charges “should never have been brought.”

He said the alleged 17-year-old victim had gone with an 18-year-old female friend to a liquor store and used a fake ID to buy vodka. He said the two females then went to the UTC dorm room of Otis and his roommate.

Attorney Summers said the friend of the alleged victim had sex with multiple partners at the dorm room.

He said the alleged victim stated she had one drink, but he said a urine test showed a drunk level of .20.

Attorney Summers said the alleged victim “tried to blame somebody else for her own indiscretions.”

He said the wrestler had suffered unfavorable publicity here and in his home town, had to make a $50,000 bond, and to pay considerable legal fees.

Justin Otis, a sophomore, was suspended from the wrestling team for five matches, but he has returned for recent matches, attorney Summers said. His wrestling coach was at the court appearance.