USC TRUSTEE SAYS GAMECOCK ATHLETES HAVE POLICE TARGET ON BACK

I’m not sure if this is a BS excuse to cover up the fact that University of South Carolina athletes have a propensity for finding themselves in handcuffs or this is a legitimate gripe, but a prominent member of the school’s board of trustees says Gamecock athletes have been targeted by university police.

Eddie Floyd, a Florence surgeon who has served on the board since 1982, said several months ago he was told that some campus police officers were overzealous in their investigations and arrests of athletes.

“I feel they have overstepped in some areas,” Floyd said Wednesday from his home in Florence. “After talking to some of the people, this is how I feel. And I always say what I feel, good or bad.”

Floyd said he met with university officials this summer to discuss the matter. He has had no direct communication with former president Andrew Sorensen or his successor, Harris Pastides, about the issue, but he said both men are aware of his concerns.

“My feeling is that (targeting athletes) has happened. I’m sure the administration may have a different opinion,” Floyd said. “But certainly that’s what I think.”

Floyd said he had no evidence police singled out athletes, but believes it has gone on based on his “gut feeling” following discussions with people he respects. [THE STATE]

Normally I’m a big fan of going with my gut feeling when making a serious accusation — especially when I’m right about pretty much everything, anyway — but it might be best to hold the judgment here until there is proof. Or until someone can make some up.

As a USC fan I have a vested interest in making sure these guys are on the field each Saturday (and some Thursdays), but they’ve gotta learn sometime. Plus, the more they get away with it, the worse it becomes.