McCaleb faces abuse charges

Twenty-year-old USM football player and student Darren McCaleb was arrested and charged with domestic abuse on Sept. 18.

A dispute between McCaleb and his girlfriend at the Pike Fraternity House led to a call to the University Police Department after the argument allegedly became violent. McCaleb faces up to six months in prison and a fine of up to $500 if convicted. The University Police Department did not comment further on the arrest.

Darren McCaleb, number 16, is the kicker for the university football team. Despite his arrest, he still played in last week's game against East Carolina.

When asked if McCaleb would play in the homecoming game against the University of Central Florida, head coach Jeff Bower said, "Sure." He said that McCaleb would not be suspended or removed from the team although he claimed that McCaleb was "harshly punished." Bower refused to provide the details of that punishment saying,"That's between he and I."

Darren McCaleb was also recently awarded Special Teams Player of the Week by Conference USA.

Dean of Students Dr. Eddie Holloway said that whatever consequences McCaleb faces are confidential by virtue of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. He said that the punishments he receives from Hattiesburg courts are separate from the punishment he receives from USM, if any. Decisions would be made by the police in partnership with the Dean of Students and possibly the counseling center.

When asked about the punishment or lack thereof from the athletic department, Holloway said that he has "absolutely no jurisdiction" over their decisions. He also said that it is not his place to sever any student from athletics or any student activities. He explained that because every student pays a student activities fee with their tuition, they cannot be denied the right to participate unless it was a personal decision.

If McCaleb were found to be harmful to himself or others, then he could face interim suspension. In this case, he must withdraw from school until the matter is settled legally. When asked if domestic violence was considered dangerous behavior, Holloway explained that they cannot make that call until McCaleb is convicted.

McCaleb's arrest was not the first problem USM has had with team members.

Six players left the team this year following a dispute that turned violent at the Hi Hat 2000 on July 22. Only one player, junior Kenneth Boley, was charged. Coach Bower then dismissed two players, two were suspended and two quit.

According to the Sun Herald, USM football recruit Anthony Perine was arrested two years ago for a sex crime. Perine's offense was later reduced to contributing to the delinquency of a minor. He served ten months of suspension, one month of house arrest and one month of jail time.

Marcus Raines was convicted for involuntary manslaughter prior to playing for USM. According to the Sun Herald, Raines then served approximately one year in a California prison.

According to USM's 2005 roster, both Perine and Raines currently play for the football team.