Four of the five Wheaton football players implicated in the alleged kidnapping of a teammate were arraigned Monday at the DuPage County Courthouse. All four players pleaded not guilty on nine felony counts. Judge Brian Telander presented the players with potential penalties if convicted, and each player responded that they understand the possible consequences. If convicted of aggravated battery, the most serious charge they face, the most severe penalty they could receive is a two to five year prison sentence or probation.
In September, James Cooksey, Kyler Kregel, Benjamin Pettway, Noah Spielman and Samuel TeBos were charged with aggravated battery, unlawful restraint and mob action in connection with an alleged hazing incident. Cooksey’s arraignment is scheduled for next month.
One of the students’ attorneys asked the judge to partially lift the gag order in order to respond to “false allegations of sexual misconduct.” The gag order prevents the disclosure of information about the case to the press and the public. None of the charges brought against the players include sexual misconduct. The judge will consider a partial lift of the gag order on Oct. 31.