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Monday, November 17, 2008 10:53 PM CST
UPDATE: Gray, Williams dismissed from UNI football team
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UPDATE: Gray, Williams dismissed from UNI football team
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UPDATE: Gray, Williams dismissed from UNI football team
By JIM SULLIVAN, Courier Sports Writer
CEDAR FALLS — The college football careers of Johnny Gray and Victor Williams officially ended Monday when Northern Iowa head coach Mark Farley dismissed the two senior wide receivers from the team.
Gray and Williams were arrested Friday on possession of marijuana charges. Gray was charged with possession with intent to deliver and violation of the Iowa drug tax stamp law. Both are felonies.
Willams was charged with serious misdemeanor possession of marijuana.
Farley suspended both Panthers Friday before the road game at Indiana State. Sunday, he met with Gray and Williams and immediately released Gray. Following another meeting with Williams today, the UNI coach then dismissed him as well.
“Our football program is held to a very high standard, both on and off the field,” said Farley at UNI’s weekly press luncheon. “We will do our best to make the decisions to make sure we meet those standards both on and off the field.”
Farley declined to share any further details on his meetings with Gray and Williams. He said that the decision on Williams was the “more difficult to do.”
“Both were thought of in totally different formats, at least by myself. That’s why Victor’s was more challenging and more difficult to make the decision on what to do.”
Both players will remain in school. They are scheduled to graduate in December.
Farley said this has been hard on him.
“I am a fan as much as a coach to this team. Those guys have been in this program for a while. That’s what makes it more difficult. I think it makes it more difficult for their teammates to accept,” he said. “I’ve always preached to our team that the program comes first. Nobody is bigger than the program. And that will remain the same as long as I’m here.”
UNI director of athletics Troy Dannen endorsed Farley’s decision to dismiss the players.
“He took a very stern and I think very appropriate response in defining what he wants that (football) program to be,” said Dannen.
He said it was critical that Farley come to a swift decision in what to do with the players.
“One, just for the team to know who is on the team, for the coaching staff to be able to plan for the future. And it’s fair to the student athletes involved. They need to know what their status is,” Dannen said.
Court records state officers with the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Task Force and Cedar Fall police executed a search warrant at Gray and William’s West 18th Street home Friday and found a “large quantity” of marijuana weighing at least 42.5 grams.
Police also located packaging materials, a digital scale, notes and money in Gray’s bedroom and in a downstairs area, records state.
Gray allegedly admitted to police the marijuana was his, records state.
Williams, who was home when police came, was found to be in possession of what was described as a “personal use” amount of marijuana, records state.
Both are from Florida and have posted bond.
Staff writer Jeff Reinitz contributed to this report
Contact Jim Sullivan at (319) 291-1434 or jim.sullivan@wcfcourier.com
Gray and Williams were arrested Friday on possession of marijuana charges. Gray was charged with possession with intent to deliver and violation of the Iowa drug tax stamp law. Both are felonies.
Willams was charged with serious misdemeanor possession of marijuana.
Farley suspended both Panthers Friday before the road game at Indiana State. Sunday, he met with Gray and Williams and immediately released Gray. Following another meeting with Williams today, the UNI coach then dismissed him as well.
“Our football program is held to a very high standard, both on and off the field,” said Farley at UNI’s weekly press luncheon. “We will do our best to make the decisions to make sure we meet those standards both on and off the field.”
Farley declined to share any further details on his meetings with Gray and Williams. He said that the decision on Williams was the “more difficult to do.”
“Both were thought of in totally different formats, at least by myself. That’s why Victor’s was more challenging and more difficult to make the decision on what to do.”
Both players will remain in school. They are scheduled to graduate in December.
Farley said this has been hard on him.
“I am a fan as much as a coach to this team. Those guys have been in this program for a while. That’s what makes it more difficult. I think it makes it more difficult for their teammates to accept,” he said. “I’ve always preached to our team that the program comes first. Nobody is bigger than the program. And that will remain the same as long as I’m here.”
UNI director of athletics Troy Dannen endorsed Farley’s decision to dismiss the players.
“He took a very stern and I think very appropriate response in defining what he wants that (football) program to be,” said Dannen.
He said it was critical that Farley come to a swift decision in what to do with the players.
“One, just for the team to know who is on the team, for the coaching staff to be able to plan for the future. And it’s fair to the student athletes involved. They need to know what their status is,” Dannen said.
Court records state officers with the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Task Force and Cedar Fall police executed a search warrant at Gray and William’s West 18th Street home Friday and found a “large quantity” of marijuana weighing at least 42.5 grams.
Police also located packaging materials, a digital scale, notes and money in Gray’s bedroom and in a downstairs area, records state.
Gray allegedly admitted to police the marijuana was his, records state.
Williams, who was home when police came, was found to be in possession of what was described as a “personal use” amount of marijuana, records state.
Both are from Florida and have posted bond.
Staff writer Jeff Reinitz contributed to this report
Contact Jim Sullivan at (319) 291-1434 or jim.sullivan@wcfcourier.com
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OFJohn wrote on Nov 17, 2008 1:47 PM:
" Good for you Coach Farley. I know I don't speak for all Panther fans, but I do think most will agree that we want UNI to have upstanding athletes representing the university more than we want championship contenders. Lucky for us we have you and your coaching staff who can bring us both. Thanks for that. Good luck in the post-season. We're behind you all the way. "
wlooguy wrote on Nov 17, 2008 2:30 PM:
" capslock, before you spout off at the mouth maybe you shoul read the entire article. The article clearly states both players will remain in school and both are scheduled to GRADUATE in December. What part about student athlete don't you understand? If student athletes don't go to class and maintain an acceptable GPA they can't play. "
harleyboy1961 wrote on Nov 17, 2008 2:57 PM:
" Good call coach! It's very unfortunate that these team players were not as serious about their academic and athletic goals in their lives as they were with their illegal drug activity. I hope these young men decide to change their current lifestyle to a more positive and productive one that will benefit them and society. Boys, you are about to grow up and learn a life time lesson about being an adult. I hope you learn from it. "
chatty1 wrote on Nov 17, 2008 3:01 PM:
" Good job Coach Farley. While this had to be a very difficult situation for the coach to deal with, a lot of us are glad he handled it the way he did! Such a shame that these two had to throw away their senior year of football like that. Makes you wonder how long they'd been up to this. I hope this is a warning for any of the rest of the team doing anything illegal. And I still think they should have random drug testing for the athletes. If you want a free ride...prove you're worth it! "
nojob wrote on Nov 17, 2008 3:12 PM:
" capslock is right, they should be kickedout of school, they are felons, and should be in jail, not allowed in school, much more not allowed to graduate, why are they doing drugs, aren't they busy with studies and football,and why do some of the comments knock down another ones comments???........ "
StoutMom wrote on Nov 17, 2008 4:20 PM:
" They won't be convicted felons until after they have had a court date which most likely will not be until after graduation with the backlogs in the court system right now.
This should be a wakeup call to all students, not just student athletes. "
This should be a wakeup call to all students, not just student athletes. "
cfreader wrote on Nov 17, 2008 4:32 PM:
" "nojob" - Why should they be kicked out of college? I don't condone what they did, but come on, they're kids. Regular students get busted for this stuff all the time, if they are living on campus, they are kicked off if the charges are severe enough, but these guys don't live on campus. They made a very stupid mistake, but lets not compound it by kicking them out of college with 3 weeks to go before they graduate. Again, not condoning what they did, but it was a non-violent crime and no previous record. Let's also remember that a normal student does not have a front page article written about their arrest when they get in trouble. The humilation these guys are facing is probably greater then the sentence they will receive. With that said, happy to see the UNI staff react quickly and appropriatly. "
cfreader wrote on Nov 17, 2008 4:35 PM:
" "nojob" - One more thing - They are NOT felons. be careful for what you say, that's for the courts to decide, not you in a blog. "
emoney wrote on Nov 17, 2008 4:54 PM:
" When is this country going to wake up and decriminalize Marijuana? Yes these boys made a mistake but nojob seems to think we should destroy their lives because of it. How is that productive to society? Marijuana is not a dangerous drug anymore than chocolate or salt is a dangerous drug. (both are probably more dangerous. Salt for sure!) Just because they smoke it doesn't mean they can't be productive members of society. Millions of Americans smoke pot and contribute every day to a positive society. I would bet there are people you know that smoke and you have no idea. Marijuana has gotten a bad rap by our government and it's time to stop the nonsense. Republicans and Democrats alike should stand up for our rights as Americans. "
nojob wrote on Nov 17, 2008 5:08 PM:
" All I am saying that what they are charged with are both feloines, thats what is in the write up........... "
uni_dog23 wrote on Nov 17, 2008 6:19 PM:
" Actually it says Williams is charged with a misdemeanor and Gray with the felonies. "
chatty1 wrote on Nov 17, 2008 6:24 PM:
" nojob, what cfreader is trying to tell you is that until they've been convicted of the crime in a court of law, they're presumed innocent. The conviction of a felony is what will make them felons. "
East High Grad wrote on Nov 17, 2008 6:34 PM:
" Nojob, please comprehend what you read. Only one was charged with a felony and they will probably drop the drug tax stamp charge. The whole idea of a drug tax stamp is a joke anyway. The other player had what is described as an amount for "personal use." If they start expelling students for messing with that stuff, you would lose quite a few students. They made a stupid mistake and the humiliation as well as getting kicked off the football team may be punishment enough. "
SGFH wrote on Nov 17, 2008 8:39 PM:
" Really everyone? C'mon!!! I'm so happy that Coach Farley is so stern with his players too......oh wait....this is the second time Gray has been busted. Seems to me he hasn't been in trouble before! It's too bad this community continues to have the blinders on. As long as the team is winning, everything is A OK!!! Give me a break. I'm a Panther supporter, don't get me wrong, but I'm not happy with the way this came about. Johnny Gray is our superstar and he made it through 4 years of college without getting caught, how convenient. And about them staying in school to graduate.....hahahahhahaha! Their major was football-believe me. I guarantee you Johnny Gray will not be walking the stage come graduation day in May GUARANTEE!!! "
SGFH wrote on Nov 17, 2008 8:45 PM:
" And you bloggers who compare these football players to normal students....STOP!!! It is ridiculous! They receive a free ride to college (worth in upwards of $40,000) and are not kids. Once again, take the blinders off. They are 20 something year old adults and deserve to be humiliated for what they did. I am a former student-athlete at UNI and was held to a higher standard, just like the football players should be. And marijuana is like chocolate? Really? So we should legalize marijuana? Hope that high person who gets behind the wheel smoking "legalized" marijuana isn't someday driving right at you (whoever posted that comment) "
crdrem wrote on Nov 17, 2008 9:43 PM:
" These two kids obviously have potential to contribute in a positive way to society. Both have been able to juggle academics as well as athletics up to this point at UNI. That is not an easy task. They deserve support and another chance. Hopefully they receive defered judgements, probation, community service and then clean records if they complete all succesfully. They've already been publicly humiliated, kicked off the team, let their teammates/families down and have the rest of their lives to regret it. US law says possession of marijuana is a serious misdemeanor but alcohol seems to cause more problems. Backwards? "
Futurelaw wrote on Nov 17, 2008 11:04 PM:
" First of all in the United States of America we are all innocent until proven guilty. That means for them to be convicted they have to go through the judicial process. Second off Mr. Grey is the only "felon" because to be considered a felon you must commit a felony. Mr William is being convicted of a misdemeanor, that doesn't make him a felon. Lastly for those of you are ignorant enough to say legalize marijuana, find the numbers, about 90% of all crimes that are committed can be traced back the use of drugs. Legalize it, gee why not just so we can have more people on the streets breaking into our houses cars and robbing businesses! Let them finish what they started four years ago so they can get a degree and become productive citizens and not slinging dope for the rest of their lives! "
troutman wrote on Nov 18, 2008 4:19 AM:
" To SGFH: You are right Gray will not be walking the stage in May...because he graduates in DECEMBER!!!
I think the team is lucky to only be losing these two players as there were others involved, but not charged. Hopefully THE TEAM can turn the corner, man the ship and go out there and play all out and show these two guys what they really missed out on. Good luck Panthers!!! "
I think the team is lucky to only be losing these two players as there were others involved, but not charged. Hopefully THE TEAM can turn the corner, man the ship and go out there and play all out and show these two guys what they really missed out on. Good luck Panthers!!! "
Get Real wrote on Nov 18, 2008 5:18 AM:
" crdrem you're right and I agree.
Alcohol is the drink of choice at college and for the major portion of athletes and I am sure they are smoking some weed too. I grew up in the 60-70s I know about both and alcohol does far more damage then pot ever will. Fine they got kicked off the team, it's just football not a life and I hope they go on to do great things, football is not a life. It would be nice if all athletes refained from getting themselves in trouble or getting smashed on a regular basis, they need to start taking the alcohol a lot more serious in college. I have never heard of a fraternity member dying over the abuse of weed or a weed initiation, and these are the so called "smart" and mainly white kids that die due to alcohol abuse. "
Alcohol is the drink of choice at college and for the major portion of athletes and I am sure they are smoking some weed too. I grew up in the 60-70s I know about both and alcohol does far more damage then pot ever will. Fine they got kicked off the team, it's just football not a life and I hope they go on to do great things, football is not a life. It would be nice if all athletes refained from getting themselves in trouble or getting smashed on a regular basis, they need to start taking the alcohol a lot more serious in college. I have never heard of a fraternity member dying over the abuse of weed or a weed initiation, and these are the so called "smart" and mainly white kids that die due to alcohol abuse. "
blogman wrote on Nov 18, 2008 6:42 AM:
" Some very good comments thus far. These two guys should have known better and I can't blame Coach Farley for booting them off the team. Gray got tagged with the felony and Williams with the serious misdemeanor. I have a hard time believing that Williams didn't know there was marijuana being sold in his home by Gray. Having attended UNI, I would be curious to know how many on the current roster purchase their weed from Gray. I'd bet there are many. Marijuana use among UNI football players has been an epidemic for years. I hope both of these young men learn and move on with their lives. I also hope this serves as a lesson for the rest of the team. I agree that marijuana is no more dangerous than alcohol, but it is illegal and these two fellas know that. How stupid could they be? They seriously damaged this team's shot at a National Title. Good work guys! "
barbie200455 wrote on Nov 18, 2008 6:48 AM:
" These two aren't "kids"-they are adults who made some bad choices and they got greedy. They knew there was a chance of getting caught when they decided to break the law. I for one am glad that Coach Farley got rid of these losers. They make a mockery out of being 'students'. Let's see their grade point average without the football team to help them out,. "
Steady wrote on Nov 18, 2008 8:04 AM:
" It is dicouraging reading posts, like emoney, and watching someone pass excuses of behavior away from the offender to society.
We could get into a big debate trying to prove or disprove the dangers of marijuana. It really comes down to one thing. Why use it if it doesn't affect your normal functions?
The idea that we excuse bad behavior because in another part of life someone is productive, leads to the continued deterioration of society.
If someone is tempted by this or any other addiction they are drawn away by their own desires. The focus should not be on establishing a society that makes these temptations ok, but to bring ourselves back into alignment. "
We could get into a big debate trying to prove or disprove the dangers of marijuana. It really comes down to one thing. Why use it if it doesn't affect your normal functions?
The idea that we excuse bad behavior because in another part of life someone is productive, leads to the continued deterioration of society.
If someone is tempted by this or any other addiction they are drawn away by their own desires. The focus should not be on establishing a society that makes these temptations ok, but to bring ourselves back into alignment. "
OFJohn wrote on Nov 18, 2008 9:29 AM:
" Blogman said it all very well. While it may very well be true that marijuana is no worse for you than alcohol, it's still illegal. And until it is no longer illegal then you are breaking the law by posessing it and selling it. These guys had a choice and they chose to break the law as well as team rules. So they have to face the consequences. Just as everyone else in society has to face the consequences for the choices they make. Bad move my these boneheads and good move by Coach Farley. Hopefully some of their teammates will get the very obvious message here and it will make them wise up a bit. It's really not that tough to not smoke pot, or not binge drink, or not drink underage, or "not" anything else. It just takes a little common sense, some self-discipline and, here's a tuffy, a little maturity. As for the whole pot being legal/illegal thing, work within the system and maybe someday those who want to, can help get it de-criminalized/legalized. But for now, it's not legal, and that's not a secret to anyone. "
chatty1 wrote on Nov 18, 2008 9:34 AM:
" SGFH: To be fair, I'm looking at Iowa Courts Online right now, and the worst charges Johnny Gray has had are a driving while license suspended ticket, and a 5th degree theft charge which most times is a bad check that wasn't taken care of. You state that this is the second time he's been busted (alluding to the same type of offense). Where and when was the first time? "
emoney wrote on Nov 18, 2008 10:04 AM:
" It's equally disturbing ready comments like Steady's. By your logic anything that affects your normal functions should be criminalized? I take it you don't drink either? What it really does come down to is who is being hurt? The majority of pot smokers are not criminals. They are not commiting violent crimes. They are not thiefs. They are just like you and me. They wake up, go work a full day and come home and want to relax. Instead of having a beer or glass of wine they choose to smoke a joint. Why is this a crime. Is this not America? Prohibition did not work for alcohol and prohibition of marijuana is causing the same problems. Society has been more damaged by the criminalization of marijuana than if it were legal. Millions of American's have quit smoking ciggarettes and they didn't have to make it a crime to do it. Fiscally and morally it just doesn't make sense. I don't care if you don't like pot. You don't have to smoke it. You can raise your kids not to smoke it. Your church can preach against it. That is where the responsibility should lie. This is not the governments job. But our government seems to find it necessasry to ruin peoples lives for sticking up for their rights. Our forfathers would be rolling in their graves. I compare marijuana to chocolate to illustrate the similarities in addictiveness. Pot is no more addicting than chocolate. Everything that makes you feel good (chocolate included) is addicting to some extent but pot does not have the physical addiction of other drugs like tobacco or meth. The thing I can't figure out is how Republicans can cry for less government and still support this unjust law. If they can criminalize something as relatively harmless as pot then where do you draw the line? And yes it is relatively harmless. Millions have been smoking it for decades and have you ever heard of a death caused by marijuana? "
MAC wrote on Nov 18, 2008 10:25 AM:
" SGFH...I've personally witnessed many, many student athletes imbibe alcohol and get behind the wheel of a car and head on down the road...that, and many other seemingly 'brainless' behaviors.
Being held to higher standards? Give me a break. A lot of these guys were mega partiers when I was in college...and still are today. "
Being held to higher standards? Give me a break. A lot of these guys were mega partiers when I was in college...and still are today. "
harleyboy1961 wrote on Nov 18, 2008 11:06 AM:
" It's nice to see the decision of the coach is being supported by the college administration as well as the public. It will be a good message to other UNI athletes that UNI has a zero tolerance for this sort of behavior when it comes to their athletes. Fortunately, they will be allowed to finish and graduate while awaiting future court hearings. I really hope you two decide to leave the drug lifestyle in your past now and I hope that your family and friends will support you through the difficult times that will come your way now. I hope you contiune to move forward with your lives and not return to that negative lifestyle. "
harleyboy1961 wrote on Nov 18, 2008 11:16 AM:
" My son remembered these players from football camp at the UNI dome earlier in the year. He was so happy to be around these UNI players and have a chance to learn from them. He was also dishearten to find out this news when I shared it with him yesterday. His question was, "Why would they do this sort of thing when they have been provided this sort of athletic oppertunity in life that could lead to a pro career?" I had no answer for him. As you can see Mr. Gray & Mr. Williams, and other athete's, you have a certain amount of resposibility to live a good and productive lifestyle because their are young athlete's who look up to you already in your career. "
(return of) joe wrote on Nov 18, 2008 12:53 PM:
" This is just a little over TWO OUNCES of POT, folks. Something that everyone on here has smoked, and we aren't talking about some big drug kingpin either. What an overblown, over hyped story about absolutely nothing, far less a crime, and even more less a felony, for God's sake. Stop trying to ride on high horses her, folks. "
Purple Panther wrote on Nov 18, 2008 2:01 PM:
" emoney, I couldn't agree with you more. I just wish the government would wake up--alcohol is a LOT more dangerous that pot, but people will defend it to the death and say it isn't dangerous. I've known people who've fallen, tripped, and done otherwise very stupid things while drunk that led to serious injury. Never heard of that on pot. And which one is legal and which one is illegal? Stupid!! "
Steady wrote on Nov 18, 2008 3:02 PM:
" First of all, joe, not everyone on here has smoked pot. Two ounces of pot is illegal, so the quantity doesn't matter.
emoney I prefaced my comment by saying we could get into an argument about the affects of marijuana and then I just gave a vague sentence. I see you missed it and still want to argue whether marijuana is harmful or not.
Obviously marijuana affects your body, right? Otherwise why use it. Where the debate comes from is if marijuana is harmful to people and society.
First every example you provided as a comparable has one major difference, regulation about the quality and control of those products. You cannot compare marijuana to any other product that has been regulated, so the only true comparision to marijuana would be other illegal drugs.
Are there studies that show marijuana is not as impactful as many other illegal drugs, yes, but it is still is impactful. The courts have made that distinction and adjusted the charges for a lesser amount. Possession of marijuana are misdemeanor arrests.
If you have another controlled (working off the assumption these are all possession levels, not distribution weight) and are arrested. First Offense - serious misdemeanor, Second Offense - aggravated misdemeanor, Third Offense - Felony.
Marijuana, First Offense - serious mis., Second Offense - aggravated mis., Third, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth arrest etc. etc. - aggravated misdemeanor.
The laws have already recognized and gave consideration that marijuana should be treated differently than other controlled substances - that is why the charges are lesser.
emoney, it is not society destroying these young men, but that of their own actions. That is the point where I found your comments discouraging. "
emoney I prefaced my comment by saying we could get into an argument about the affects of marijuana and then I just gave a vague sentence. I see you missed it and still want to argue whether marijuana is harmful or not.
Obviously marijuana affects your body, right? Otherwise why use it. Where the debate comes from is if marijuana is harmful to people and society.
First every example you provided as a comparable has one major difference, regulation about the quality and control of those products. You cannot compare marijuana to any other product that has been regulated, so the only true comparision to marijuana would be other illegal drugs.
Are there studies that show marijuana is not as impactful as many other illegal drugs, yes, but it is still is impactful. The courts have made that distinction and adjusted the charges for a lesser amount. Possession of marijuana are misdemeanor arrests.
If you have another controlled (working off the assumption these are all possession levels, not distribution weight) and are arrested. First Offense - serious misdemeanor, Second Offense - aggravated misdemeanor, Third Offense - Felony.
Marijuana, First Offense - serious mis., Second Offense - aggravated mis., Third, Fourth, Fifth, Sixth arrest etc. etc. - aggravated misdemeanor.
The laws have already recognized and gave consideration that marijuana should be treated differently than other controlled substances - that is why the charges are lesser.
emoney, it is not society destroying these young men, but that of their own actions. That is the point where I found your comments discouraging. "
yermom wrote on Nov 18, 2008 3:32 PM:
" Actually (return of) joe, this is less than 2 ounces of pot. Considerably less.
Good thing the CFPD had the time to make this "bust"... Meanwhile, twice in the past week has there been a bank robbery within a block's vicinity from the police dept. What priorities!!! "
Good thing the CFPD had the time to make this "bust"... Meanwhile, twice in the past week has there been a bank robbery within a block's vicinity from the police dept. What priorities!!! "
xx12 wrote on Nov 18, 2008 6:15 PM:
" I'm appalled that there has not been an uproar in our community over this. Sending in the SWAT team to ruin kid's lives over pot!!! Unbelievable. And to have the authorities call 42 grams a "large quantity" -- laughable propaganda. Here's the thing: in IA, if you have any more than a half ounce, it's an automatic "possession with intent to deliver." Plus you loose your driver's license for a year. Plus whatever car or house you own that the pot was found in is subject to civil forfeiture, even if you are eventually found not guilty. People, this is madness. Many health organizations over the years have affirmed that pot is much less harmful than alcohol--just check. These guys are having their lives ruined for choosing to relax with a less toxic substance. Look: Massachusetts just decriminalised possession of up to an ounce, Denver, CO has decriminalised up to 100 grams, cities large and small accross the country,in states as diverse as Idaho, Montana, Washington have told their community police to make the prosecution of pot "offenses" the lowest priority. Let's join them. "
abj88 wrote on Nov 18, 2008 8:56 PM:
" Take away their scholarships. The taxpayers have no reason to provide a free education for drug dealers. "
Newswatcher wrote on Nov 18, 2008 9:35 PM:
" But, guess what xx12? In Iowa, it's still illegal! So is driving .08, so is driving over our posted speed limits, so is drinking under 21, so is this and that.
Point being, they knew it was wrong. They were in positions of greatness here in our community, being super UNI football stars in a community that fully supports the team. They will now learn consequences for bad choices. I'd suggest you learn from their experience so you don't end up making a half-dozen excuses for breaking a law and getting busted! "
Point being, they knew it was wrong. They were in positions of greatness here in our community, being super UNI football stars in a community that fully supports the team. They will now learn consequences for bad choices. I'd suggest you learn from their experience so you don't end up making a half-dozen excuses for breaking a law and getting busted! "
Steady wrote on Nov 19, 2008 7:50 AM:
" As a society we continue to give excuses for bad behavior. xx12 is another great example of why this country has lost its way. It is not the police department that ruined their lives over pot - it is them who made a decision to ruin their own lives over pot.
To keep saying it was just "a little" pot doesn't matter, a little pot is illegal and we all know it. Let me ask you this, you can apply it to your lives outside of this story, everyone loves fresh baked cookies. If your mom made a fresh batch of cookies you would come running up to grab one, but right before you took a bite she told you she sprinkled a little dog poop in them. Would you eat them? Why not, it is just a little. Couldn't even taste it and small enough that it wouldn't make you sick.
The "littles" in life do matter. Our society has gotten to the point of making excuses for bad behavior. Lets be honest and call it like it is because providing excuses for illegal activity does not help them or anyone.
Be honest, hold people accountable for their own actions and then establish a path to help them. "
To keep saying it was just "a little" pot doesn't matter, a little pot is illegal and we all know it. Let me ask you this, you can apply it to your lives outside of this story, everyone loves fresh baked cookies. If your mom made a fresh batch of cookies you would come running up to grab one, but right before you took a bite she told you she sprinkled a little dog poop in them. Would you eat them? Why not, it is just a little. Couldn't even taste it and small enough that it wouldn't make you sick.
The "littles" in life do matter. Our society has gotten to the point of making excuses for bad behavior. Lets be honest and call it like it is because providing excuses for illegal activity does not help them or anyone.
Be honest, hold people accountable for their own actions and then establish a path to help them. "
gmaro wrote on Nov 19, 2008 9:38 AM:
" Well said Steady. These men knew full well what they were doing and just like so many others they think cause they are "stars" they can do no wrong. And as far as graduating with a college education -probably not if they were recruited to play football and help the college earn trophys and recognition not for their desire of education. Which to me is very sad when there are many who would love to have a free ride for an education. Granted there are college athletes who actually work towards degrees in a professional field and aren't just there looking for a hand out. I applaud those athletes, the others I have no respect for because they truly don't deserve to be there. Too bad our universities are more concerned with winning teams than education. "
barbie200455 wrote on Nov 19, 2008 9:41 AM:
" It doesn't matter if it was just a little pot-they broke the law! They chose to sell the drug as well, and you can't tell me they didn't know the consequences. I have absolutely NO sympathy for them. They let their team down and they let themselves get caught up in something stupid just because they got greedy. Good riddance. "
(return of) joe wrote on Nov 19, 2008 9:44 AM:
" yermom...Hre's what the article says, "Court records state officers with the Tri-County Drug Enforcement Task Force and Cedar Fall police executed a search warrant at Gray and William’s West 18th Street home Friday and found a “large quantity” of marijuana weighing at least 42.5 grams. If 16 grams makes an ounce, how is 42.5 grams "considerably less than two ounces," as you say? "
yermom wrote on Nov 19, 2008 9:48 AM:
" Steady, what in the world is the correlation between a little bit of pot and a little bit of dog poop? That pot will make you sick? Well, it probably won't (unless of course, someone "sprinkled a little dog poop" on it).
Couldn't there be something in the fact that this amount of pot has been decriminalized in places all across the country? That in some places this would have amounted to no more than a simple ticket? Because maybe pot is not as dangerous as its been made out to be? Yeah, it may be illegal in IA, but so is jaywalking. Should we have such staunch enforcement with that too? Last I checked though, CF has had two unsolved bank robberies happen from right under the noses of the police dept. And robbing a bank is illegal everywhere, because it's a real crime, and it is dangerous. I would say the taxpayers have no reason to be funding useless pot "busts" when there's still at least one bank robber on the lose. "
Couldn't there be something in the fact that this amount of pot has been decriminalized in places all across the country? That in some places this would have amounted to no more than a simple ticket? Because maybe pot is not as dangerous as its been made out to be? Yeah, it may be illegal in IA, but so is jaywalking. Should we have such staunch enforcement with that too? Last I checked though, CF has had two unsolved bank robberies happen from right under the noses of the police dept. And robbing a bank is illegal everywhere, because it's a real crime, and it is dangerous. I would say the taxpayers have no reason to be funding useless pot "busts" when there's still at least one bank robber on the lose. "
yermom wrote on Nov 19, 2008 9:54 AM:
" (return of) joe, 16 grams makes about 1/2 of an ounce. 28 grams makes 1 ounce. This would mean 42.5 grams would be just a bit over 1 1/2 ounces, or "considerable less than two ounces" as I said. "
dfrank5775 wrote on Nov 19, 2008 11:37 AM:
" There are about 28.35 grams in an ounce, but I am not siding with Gray and Williams.
Most high students who fail, fail becuase they don't do their work. Most of those students aren't motivated to do their work. Some of those aren't motivated becuase they smoke pot. Marijuana causes "Amotivational Syndrome" to occur in alot of the kids who smoke it. "
Most high students who fail, fail becuase they don't do their work. Most of those students aren't motivated to do their work. Some of those aren't motivated becuase they smoke pot. Marijuana causes "Amotivational Syndrome" to occur in alot of the kids who smoke it. "
(return of) joe wrote on Nov 19, 2008 12:15 PM:
" I stand corrected, sorry. Yes, then all the more reason to see this as a REALLY BIG CRIME that has stricken the Cedar Valley! Oh no! A black guy with an ounce and a half! Couple that with some rap music, and we have a known and proven dangerous person on our hands. Give me a break, all of you hypocrites who smoked yourselves before. What a joke. "
Steady wrote on Nov 19, 2008 3:23 PM:
" joe, I imagine that you have a job. In your job is there some things that are more important than others? Are you still required to do the small things in your job? Do you find that those small things need to get done, no matter how small? Do you find that you have time to do those small things and it doesn't take away from your ability to take care of the larger more important things?
This notion that we should disregard small crimes or let small crimes go is just silly and sends the wrong message to everyone.
(Additionally, thanks for throwing race in once again for no other reason than to cause more division - good job.) "
This notion that we should disregard small crimes or let small crimes go is just silly and sends the wrong message to everyone.
(Additionally, thanks for throwing race in once again for no other reason than to cause more division - good job.) "
(return of) joe wrote on Nov 19, 2008 3:44 PM:
" Steady...for one who brings race up more than almost any person on here I find it curious that such a discussion is uncomfortable to you? "
Newswatcher wrote on Nov 19, 2008 4:34 PM:
" So, you think it would be best for our community to just let these two play on our UNI team and have the kids watch this all play out?
Pot = illegal, but in small quantities, we'll say "OH well", you play football, or you're this guy/gal, this color/that color, or whatever!
Stop this nonsense!
These guys (allegedly) bought pot, dealt pot, smoked pot and therefore have no business being starting players on the UNI football team.
Coach Farley is right to kick them off and our community will be better for it. Why? Because we play by the rules and expect our citizens to do the same. That's why people like to live here.
Of course down in Potsville at the University of Losers they'd let these 2 guys slide through. Then the next 2 guys, then the pill pusher, then the arsonist, then the meth dealer, then the robber, then the rapist, then whoever. Just where do you draw the line? The law! The law within your state. The law within your college, community or department.
The law is the law. Break it and you suffer the consequences. Gender, skin color, athleticism, no matter what your 'specialty' is, it shouldn't matter.
Don't we all feel just incensed that OJ Simpson got to spend 13 years running around playing golf while looking for his wife's killer? Think he got off for his fame? Don't we all feel hopeful that he'll finally spend time in prison after his last crime, yet wasn't it 'miniature' compared to killing Nicole and Ron?
It's time for athletic department heads to insist on rules being respected and followed or you're OUT! This will better the next generation of young people who look up to the current players.
We can do better, people. Don't be afraid to follow the rules, it's what sets successful communities apart from those that suffer. "
Pot = illegal, but in small quantities, we'll say "OH well", you play football, or you're this guy/gal, this color/that color, or whatever!
Stop this nonsense!
These guys (allegedly) bought pot, dealt pot, smoked pot and therefore have no business being starting players on the UNI football team.
Coach Farley is right to kick them off and our community will be better for it. Why? Because we play by the rules and expect our citizens to do the same. That's why people like to live here.
Of course down in Potsville at the University of Losers they'd let these 2 guys slide through. Then the next 2 guys, then the pill pusher, then the arsonist, then the meth dealer, then the robber, then the rapist, then whoever. Just where do you draw the line? The law! The law within your state. The law within your college, community or department.
The law is the law. Break it and you suffer the consequences. Gender, skin color, athleticism, no matter what your 'specialty' is, it shouldn't matter.
Don't we all feel just incensed that OJ Simpson got to spend 13 years running around playing golf while looking for his wife's killer? Think he got off for his fame? Don't we all feel hopeful that he'll finally spend time in prison after his last crime, yet wasn't it 'miniature' compared to killing Nicole and Ron?
It's time for athletic department heads to insist on rules being respected and followed or you're OUT! This will better the next generation of young people who look up to the current players.
We can do better, people. Don't be afraid to follow the rules, it's what sets successful communities apart from those that suffer. "
crimstudent wrote on Nov 19, 2008 5:09 PM:
" Its really a waste of time and money to be prosecuting two people with no prior criminal history. The iowa criminal justice system is a joke, especially for african american males. Mr. Gray even got hit with a felony charge. The drug stamp law is just a way to throw an extra 5 years at an offender. Who in the hell in their right mind is going to apply for a drug tax stamp? Bobby sykes? and you see what happened to him. One word of advice for both...take a plea and leave iowa. because if you take it to trial and lose, which is most often the result in Black Hawk County for minorities and poor whites with drug cases, you might as well get ready to spend the next few years in iowa under some form of corrections. "
crimstudent wrote on Nov 19, 2008 5:14 PM:
" O.J. got off because of his big bucks at the time. It had nothing to do with his celebrtiy status. He hired arguably, the best 7 lawyers of our lifetime and they got him acquitted. I bet if williams and gray had those lawyers they would beat the charges and still be playing ball. It would be interesting turn of events IF they were found innocent. "
Newswatcher wrote on Nov 19, 2008 7:10 PM:
" crimstudent, I hope you think about calling OJ's attorney's the "best 7 lawyers of our lifetime". What value do you place on getting a cold blooded murderer off? Talented lawyers, yes. But best? No way in (deleted)! Did they do their job? Yes, for OJ, but they did a disservice for the rest of American's - including his children - they put him back out on the streets.
If you're going to be an attorney, remember, being the 'best' is a morally risky venture.
I wish you the 'best', but don't put criminals out on the streets, please. "
If you're going to be an attorney, remember, being the 'best' is a morally risky venture.
I wish you the 'best', but don't put criminals out on the streets, please. "
Steady wrote on Nov 20, 2008 7:42 AM:
" Nice try joe, but that doesn't work with me. I understand your game but your arrow has missed it mark. I would love for someone to list all our posts side by side and see who appears to be the one carrying hate.
Good job avoiding the real issue. "
Good job avoiding the real issue. "
Steady wrote on Nov 20, 2008 12:12 PM:
" Has anyone given consideration to how Tri-County received the search warrant? They don't get search warrants by seeing two guys playing rap music like joe wants you to believe. (In his own world he believes it.)
Search warrants need to be brought before a judge and show they have probable cause that an illegal activity is taking place before the judge signs it.
These types of search warrants are usually generated from a couple places. They could have sold to an undercover officer, another offender arrested might of rolled on them or they received intel on them and logged enough evidence to show a pattern.
Either way, they must of done something overt enough to draw the attention of law enforcement. So they were not sitting in the residence minding their own business when the big bad law enforcement guys came in.
I have given the example of dog poop and also those little things in your own job that need to get done to demonstrate that it does matter - the little things in your lives will build up.
One more argument against those thinknig this was a waste of money & time. Tri-County Drug Task Force assignment is to go after those engaging in drug activity (even a "little" drug activity) and the majority of the task force is funded by the Bryne Grant - no local dollars. "
Search warrants need to be brought before a judge and show they have probable cause that an illegal activity is taking place before the judge signs it.
These types of search warrants are usually generated from a couple places. They could have sold to an undercover officer, another offender arrested might of rolled on them or they received intel on them and logged enough evidence to show a pattern.
Either way, they must of done something overt enough to draw the attention of law enforcement. So they were not sitting in the residence minding their own business when the big bad law enforcement guys came in.
I have given the example of dog poop and also those little things in your own job that need to get done to demonstrate that it does matter - the little things in your lives will build up.
One more argument against those thinknig this was a waste of money & time. Tri-County Drug Task Force assignment is to go after those engaging in drug activity (even a "little" drug activity) and the majority of the task force is funded by the Bryne Grant - no local dollars. "
crimstudent wrote on Nov 20, 2008 2:31 PM:
" steady, society is mad because OJ killed Ron and nicole. What is the offender/victim relationship in this triad? Black offender + 2 white victims dead= lethal injection, at least thatss what we thought but OJ proved that wrong. What do you have to say about all these rogue cops killing unarmed black men and severly beatiing them and getting no more punishment than desk suty or paid adm. leave. Please give me an explanation. "
Steady wrote on Nov 20, 2008 3:43 PM:
" Did I miss the part of the story that these two were killed by rouge cops, crimstudent? Just wondering. "
Newswatcher wrote on Nov 21, 2008 9:34 AM:
" So, crimstudent, are you proud of OJ? Proud he got off because he's black and his victims were white? Don't forget, he was found guilty in the Civil Case.
Should all blacks be given a pass on crime because, um, let's see...oh, uh Rodney King was beaten?
Should Williams and Gray be given a pass because they're black?
Isn't this what you're saying? Why is everything to you about skin color? Why should it matter? To you or anyone? I don't care what color Gray and WIlliams are, they had pot, they're OUT! Period!
It's a human tendancy to assess the risk of a situation based on knowledge or direct experience. If 'black people' have a problem with people assuming they may be dangerous, then maybe it's time for these 'black people' to rise up and demand better behavior from their brothers and sisters.
Most are innocent, but the few bad apples that insist on intimidation as their way of communication are the ones to blame for the 'risk assumption'. Don't come to me and tell me my innate reaction is wrong, because I am not a prejudiced person, never have been. Skin color differences to me are no different than eye or hair color. We're all just people.
But people with bad behaviors and criminal actions will suffer the eventual reputations and consequences. This is human, not racist. It is a human behavior, not prejudism of civilization.
With a biracial POTUS coming on board soon, a black woman Sec of State for the last 8 years, Oprah's story (from literally rags to riches), affirmative action, Negro College Fund, massive in-born athletic talent of African American men and women, the list goes on and on, I see no reason to give any more excuses to a person based on their skin color or slave-history.
Quit giving black people a victim-pacifier and perhaps as a whole, they'll demand more from each other. Drop the drug, crime, prison-bound behaviors and start living the Real American Dream.
Victim mentality is nothing but a silent happiness-sucker from within. Don't encourage it anymore.
A new nation calls for this change. Get off the race boat, it's sinking. "
Should all blacks be given a pass on crime because, um, let's see...oh, uh Rodney King was beaten?
Should Williams and Gray be given a pass because they're black?
Isn't this what you're saying? Why is everything to you about skin color? Why should it matter? To you or anyone? I don't care what color Gray and WIlliams are, they had pot, they're OUT! Period!
It's a human tendancy to assess the risk of a situation based on knowledge or direct experience. If 'black people' have a problem with people assuming they may be dangerous, then maybe it's time for these 'black people' to rise up and demand better behavior from their brothers and sisters.
Most are innocent, but the few bad apples that insist on intimidation as their way of communication are the ones to blame for the 'risk assumption'. Don't come to me and tell me my innate reaction is wrong, because I am not a prejudiced person, never have been. Skin color differences to me are no different than eye or hair color. We're all just people.
But people with bad behaviors and criminal actions will suffer the eventual reputations and consequences. This is human, not racist. It is a human behavior, not prejudism of civilization.
With a biracial POTUS coming on board soon, a black woman Sec of State for the last 8 years, Oprah's story (from literally rags to riches), affirmative action, Negro College Fund, massive in-born athletic talent of African American men and women, the list goes on and on, I see no reason to give any more excuses to a person based on their skin color or slave-history.
Quit giving black people a victim-pacifier and perhaps as a whole, they'll demand more from each other. Drop the drug, crime, prison-bound behaviors and start living the Real American Dream.
Victim mentality is nothing but a silent happiness-sucker from within. Don't encourage it anymore.
A new nation calls for this change. Get off the race boat, it's sinking. "
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capslock wrote on Nov 17, 2008 1:41 PM: