Report: Michael Crabtree Being Investigated for Sexual Assault
By Josh Hill
The San Francisco 49ers are in Atlanta to take on the Falcons this Sunday in the NFC Championship game, but the news is staying back home where wide receiver Michael Crabtree is the subject of am alleged sexual assault investigation, according to numerous reports.
According to the San Francisco Chronicle, police interviewed Crabtree in connection to a report from a woman claiming Crabtree assaulted her. The report in the Chronicle states that the woman alleges Crabtree sexually assaulted her at an unnamed hotel mere hours after the 49ers beat the Packers in last Saturday’s NFC Divisional playoff game.
The 49ers issued a statement regarding the issue late Friday night.
"“We are aware of the allegation against Michael and understand that he has fully cooperated with authorities. The 49ers take such matters very seriously. We will have no further comment at this time as the legal process is ongoing. Additional requests for comment should be directed to Michael’s attorney.”– 49ers General Manager Trent Baalke"
KTVU is reporting that Crabtree is cooperating with the San Francisco Police Departments Special Victims Unit, and Crabtree has not yet been arrested or charged with anything in connection to the case. The 49ers fully expect Crabtree to play in Sunday’s NFC Championship game, and the investigation is still ongoing. Police have not released any further information at this time.
Crabtree has even gone as far as to make himself readily available for further interviews regarding the attack.
As of now, the NFL is not pursuing any action and will refrain from doing so until the police investigation has been completed. If Crabtree is arrested in connection with the assault, he may be unavailable to play should the 49ers make the Super Bowl. However, no charges have been filed against Crabtree at this time and an arrest before the NFC Championship game is highly unlikely.