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MINNEAPOLIS – Two University of Minnesota wrestlers who were arrested on suspicion of criminal sexual conduct were released Tuesday from jail without charges.
The office faced a noon deadline for a charging decision.
Martinez, Steveson Suspended From Wrestling Team
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.
Steveson was a four-time state champion at Apple Valley High School in Minnesota. 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.
Two Wrestlers Arrested After Alleged Saturday Incident
Martinez and Steveson, one of the nation’s top heavyweights and an aspiring Olympian, were arrested over the weekend in an alleged incident early Saturday. A police report gave almost no details of the allegations.
The arrests were made after an alleged victim reported Saturday night she had been raped and sought treatment at a hospital.
Martinez Won Two State Titles at Fresno City
Martinez won two state community college championships for Fresno City College in 2016 and 2017, helping FCC to state titles each year. He was on the powerhouse Clovis High teams that won several state championships.