Florida State University two-sport star Jameis Winston was handed a civil citation Wednesday after leaving a local supermarket without paying for $32.72 worth of crab legs and crawfish.
Winston, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner as a quarterback, ordered food from the deli counter at a Publix in Tallahassee, Fla., but didn't pay for the order, Leon County Sheriff's Maj. Michael Wood told reporters at a Wednesday news conference.
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Publix employees called deputies, who went to the 20-year-old's apartment, where Winston said he forgot to pay. Publix store managers decided not to press charges as long as Winston performs at least 20 hours of community service.
"I went to the supermarket with the intent to purchase dinner but made a terrible mistake for which I'm taking full responsibility," Winston said in a statement released by his lawyer, Tim Jansen. "In a moment of youthful ignorance, I walked out of the store without paying for one of my items.
"I realize that I am in the public spotlight and my conduct needs to be above reproach. Over the last year I've learned that my accomplishments on the fields can be a wonderful thing for my school, teammates, friends, and family. At the same time, I must realize that my mistakes are magnified and can bring great embarrassment to all those who support me every day."
Following the incident, Winston was suspended from the FSU baseball team. As a pitcher, he had posted a 1-0 with a 1.50 ERA in 16 appearances this season.
"As a result of his citation last night, we are suspending Jameis Winston from the baseball team," coach Mike Martin said in a statement. "I am confident he will complete his community service obligation and the situation will be resolved soon."
Winston led the undefeated Seminoles to the national championship in his freshman year, which culminated with a 34-31 win over Auburn in the title game.
This isn't Winston's first brush with the law. In December, the state attorney in Florida opted
not to charge Winston after a woman accused him of sexual assault.
One month earlier, police were called to an apartment complex in which windows had been damaged by BB guns. Winston and his then-roommate, Chris Casher, told officers they had been involved in "battles" with teammates, but denied shooting the guns.
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