Florida State star quarterback Jameis Winston has been cleared of sexual assault charges Tallahassee prosecutors announced on Thursday.
The 19-year-old redshirt freshman and Heisman Trophy candidate was accused of rape by a female FSU student. The alleged attack took place on the night of Dec. 7, 2012 and recently resurfaced when the woman again went public with her allegations.
Announced by Second Judicial Circuit lead prosecutor Willie Meggs, thursday's announcement paves the way for Winston to finish his season with the No. 1 ranked Seminoles as they move forward with their goal of a national title.
Meggs and his office spent three weeks investigating the charges during which time it was reported Winston's DNA was found on the woman's underwear. Defense attorney Tim Jansen later confirmed Winston and the woman had sex but insisted it was consensual.
With his name now cleared, Winston is widely expected to re-cement his status as a leading Heisman candidate, joining Texas A& M and Alabama quarterbacks Johnny Manziel and AJ McCarron.
Winston has passed for 3,490 yards with 38 touchdowns and just five interceptions. The deadline for all Heisman ballots to be submitted is Monday.
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