Petrino addresses Epps’ status
Idaho coach Paul Petrino addressed the Dezmon Epps situation with the media Tuesday afternoon, stating he waiting for the legal process to play out.
Idaho suspended Epps indefinitely from the football program after he allegedly struck his girlfriend early Sunday morning.
Petrino first heard about the situation on Monday morning.
"I came out with my statement and that’s something I tell my players over and over again. We will not tolerate any kind of violence with women, that will not be tolerated and I stand firmly on that. Right now I’m just going to let the legal process take its course and I really can’t say anything else, but that’s where I stand on the situation. He denies it, he says he has not done it. I hope that’s true, we’ll let it take its course," Petrino said.
Petrino's personal policy is one of zero tolerance for domestic violence. Based on his later statements, Epps will be dismissed from the program if allegations of violence against his girlfriend are confirmed. It's unclear if charges need to be pressed for Petrino to take action.
"Everyone on the team knows that if it comes out that you touch a girl, you’re off the team. Period. That goes for any individual on the team," Petrino said. "That’s been my stand. I have three sisters and two daughters. From day one that’s what I’ve told the team. To me it’s a lot bigger deal."
Epps has denied the allegations to Petrino.
