LAWRENCE, Kan. (WAND) — Terrence Shannon Jr., an Illinois basketball player who has been charged with rape in Lawrence, Kan., made his first appearance in Douglas County court on Thursday afternoon.
Shannon appeared via Zoom before Judge Sally Pokorny. His attorneys Mark P. Sutter and Tricia Bath were also present via Zoom.
In December, Shannon was suspended from all team activities due to the charge. He and his legal team are waiting for a judge to rule on their motion for a Temporary Restraining Order that would allow him back on the court.
Related Links
- Illini standout Terrence Shannon Jr. suspended on rape charges
- Illinois rallies together without Shannon, take down Fairleigh Dickinson 104-71
- University of Illinois files notice of removal in response to Shannon Jr.'s restraining order
- U of I issues response to Terrence Shannon Jr.'s motion for temporary restraining order
- Court hears arguments for temporary restraining order in Terrence Shannon Jr. suspension
The alleged incident occurred during an Illini football game against Kansas on Sept. 8, 2023. According to the university, Shanon was not in Lawrence in an official capacity or as a member of the university travel party.
The charging document from Douglas County states that the penalty range for one count of rape ranges from 147 months to a maximum of 653 months.
Shannon's appearance wrapped up quickly and a preliminary hearing was set for Friday, Feb. 23.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Copyright 2024. WAND TV. All rights reserved.
