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.
The pair had been suspended from team activity after their arrest. The University of Minnesota Athletic Department said in a statement Tuesday that their suspension remains in place while the investigation continues, as outlined in the student athlete code of conduct. The university has not identified the athletes or their sport.
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, and Martinez didn’t immediately respond to messages that were left on his phone and email while he was jailed.
Groshek said Steveson 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.
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