COLUMBUS – Ohio State head football coach Urban Meyer has suspended defensive lineman Adolphus Washington for the Fiesta Bowl after he was cited by police for solicitation.
“Senior Adolphus Washington will be suspended from playing in Ohio State’s upcoming bowl game for violating team policy,” Meyer said in a statement released by the university Friday morning.
The Buckeyes play Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 1.
Washington was cited at the Crosswoods Shopping Center, north of Worthington, during a sting operation conducted by the Columbus police vice squad, according to the Columbus Dispatch, and is due in court Dec. 17.
In a statement, Washington was contrite, saying: “I have wanted to be a high-character teammate, a contributor to the success of this program and, most importantly, someone my family can be proud of.
“I am extremely disappointed in myself, and I can honestly say I will learn from my mistake and I will accept the consequences that deservedly will come my way. And I hope that people will know that I am truly sorry and that I sincerely do apologize.”
The charge of soliciting a prostitute is a first-degree misdemeanor and carries a maximum penalty of up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Washington started all 12 games for the Buckeyes this season.