Why are multiple Auburn students being suspended? Alleged video of Tigers RB Jarquez Hunter takes school by storm
A video of Jarquez Hunter that may have been filmed without his knowledge has practically set the Auburn Tigers football program on fire. A wave of suspensions has resulted following the leak of a video that shows the school's star running back having sex with an unidentified woman.
Multiple students, who have not been identified, have been suspended indefinitely, the school announced in a statement. It is not know if Hunter is one of those, according to the New York Post. The school is investigating possible violations of the school's code of conduct, according to Outkick. It's unknown if there will be a criminal investigation as well.
Outkick reported that a person running a Twitter account "put in their Twitter profile that you could pay them $5 to see the video." WRBL in Columbus, Georgia, reported that "an Auburn University athlete had been secretly recording his encounters and sharing them on a group chat. The Twitter account creator also alleged the student-athlete was filming teammates without their knowledge."
Brad Logan, a contributor to "Inside the (Ole Miss) Rebels" on 247 Sports, tweeted that Hunter has been suspended. Hunter was Mississippi's Mr. Football while starring at Philadelphia High School.
Reactions have been flying online both in support and against the action of the school. Arguments against the school's action are hinging on accusations that the management is overreacting. The school, in response, has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive atmosphere for every student.
The incident has led to many suspensions
A statement from the university confirmed that some students have been suspended during their ongoing investigation. It remains uncertain if Hunter is one of them. There is also no information yet regarding whether all those who have been suspended are athletes.
Jennifer Adams, the executive director of public Affairs at the university, released the following statement:
“We are aware of the situation and take this matter very seriously. The appropriate office are conducting a thorough review. Indefinite suspensions have been issued for violation of applicable Auburn Athletics department policy. No further comment will be provided at this time.”
As of now, no charges have been brought against anybody connected to the video and its release. The school has declined to identify those who have been suspended and or provide information about their form of involvement.
The NCAA is also reportedly closely watching the situation.
Hunter's career with the Auburn Tigers
Coming out of high school, Hunter was a three-star recruit ranked as the 44th-best running back recruit in the nation. Despite receiving offers from Mississippi State and Iowa, Hunter committed to Auburn.
During his freshman year, Hunter was Auburn's second-string running back, with Tank Bigsby taking the lead. By the end of the 2021 season, he accumulated 593 rushing yards, averaging a 6.7 yards per carry, an incredible stat for a freshman.
Hunter had an impressive performance last season, rushing for 675 yards and seven touchdowns (while catching two more TDs). He is expected to have a significant role in the Tigers' 2023 season as he made a strong impression during spring practice.