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FIRST ON WITN: Williams Charged With Assault Save Email Print
Posted: 3:27 PM Oct 21, 2008
 Last Updated: 9:14 PM Oct 22, 2008
98 comments
A | A | A

An ECU running back faces even more charges. Greenville police say last night they arrested Jonathan Williams for a third time this year.

Warrants obtained by WITN News say Williams was charged with two counts of misdemeanor assault with a deadly weapon.

One warrant says on Sunday Williams hit Douglas Edwards with a beer bottle, hitting him in the head. The second warrant says the football player struck Bailey Hattem on her left arm, also with a beer bottle.

We've posted the warrants online, click the link at the top of the story to view

Tuesday WITN broke the story that the star running back was arrested two weeks ago for resisting a police officer. ECU football coach Skip Holtz said he was only made aware of that arrest around noon, that after a WITN reporter contacted the athletic department about the arrest.

In April the football player was arrested for DWI and underage drinking.

Greenville police say this weekend's assault happened at North Campus Crossing during a party early Sunday morning.

The police report says three victims were approached outside by four men, one who attacked them with a beer bottle. Two of those victims identified Williams as the person who hit them.

Williams was released on a $2500 unsecured appearance bond. His court date is November 19th.

Tuesday's Story

There's even more problems for an East Carolina University football player arrested earlier this year for DWI.

WITN News learned 20-year-old Jonathan Williams was arrested October 5 and charged with resisting an officer. ECU Head Football Coach Skip Holtz said Tuesday the university is also investigating a possible connection between Williams and an incident in Greenville this weekend.

Holtz would only tell us that ECU is investigating what happened this weekend before determining Williams' future with the team.

Williams, who played for J.H. Rose while in high school, was released on a $1,000 bond after his arrest October 5. He has a court date November 5.

The warrant says the running back failed to follow a police officer's order to stay put as they investigated a domestic call. WITN broke that story this morning after getting court documents from the Pitt County courthouse.

Holtz says he learned of the October 5 arrest today around noon, about an hour after a WITN reporter made inquiries about the arrest to the athletic department. (Click the document above to read Holtz's statement about the October 5 arrest.)

Williams played the following weekend after his arrest.

After an open records request, WITN obtained a copy of the Greenville police department arrest report, but that report does not say what happened. The narrative section of the report is blank.

The arrest report also says the 20-year-old Williams was a student at Pitt Community College, not ECU.

In April, Williams was arrested for driving while impaired and underage onsumption of alcohol. He's scheduled to appear in court on those charges January 16.
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Posted by: Michael Location: Ayden on Nov 24, 2008 at 09:06 AM
Just Wanted to Say " GO PRIATES " after all the injuries and problems this year. It was said at the beginning of the year that this TEAM would be SPECIAL. Well they are to be able to accomplish what they have NO it has not been pretty and they have keep us on the edge of our seats, but the deserve our support to the Players and Coaches thank you for what you have done. The best is yet to come, 3 games left 3 wins to go.
Posted by: pirate4everinGreenville Location: Greenville on Nov 14, 2008 at 12:28 PM
How silly and uninformed can people be? If you had to have a 1200 SAT to get into ECU, or other state school for that matter, about 90 percent of all the students in the last 100 years at ECTC, ECC, and ECU would have NO college education!!! Please, people, read, study, GET YOUR FACTS RIGHT!! 1200 a little was almost enough to earn you an academic scholarship in the 60s and 70s before they changed the scoring routine of the SAT in the early 90s. Come on!
Posted by: Big T Location: greenville on Nov 6, 2008 at 01:54 PM
Negative ECU lady, that SAT minimum of 1200 has NEVER been the minimum, I know of kids in ECU on less than a 890 on the old format. Now I agree with you correction of my buddy dave, but when you correct you must do it with fact. There are students here with NO sat score. They are probably the ones driving drunk at 18 and breaking bottles on folks heads. I think the boy is bad news, I am judging him because I don't want what I pay to watch ECU play to go to recuruiting the likes of this hoodlum. Cut the "troublesome youth" loose and give his ride to a kid that will appreciate the chance.
Posted by: ?? Location: greenville on Nov 3, 2008 at 05:56 PM
"ECU Lady", You are incorrect about the SAT score. I am currently at ECU now and I got into ecu with a 970 SAT, and I have friends that got in that had lower SAT scores than me. Also, breaking a glass beer bottle over someones head and then hitting a girl with a glass bottle, that is rather low if you ask me. You also said that only God can judge...are you God because it seems your a judging the people on this board (assuming most people have driven with alcohol in their system)
Posted by: ECU Lady Location: Greenville on Oct 28, 2008 at 09:47 AM
To Dave: sweetheart, you need more than 2.0 to get into ECU. When I applied (and got in), the minimum SAT score you needed to get in was a 1200. I'm pretty sure they've upped this score since they've changed the SAT. So whatever to you. And to the rest of you who are judging this young man, only God can judge. Yes, he had made his share of mistakes, but who hasn't. Half of you commenting have probably done way worse than "hit someone with a beer bottle" but you just didn't get reported for it. And seeing as how most of are from Greenville and we all know how Greenville gets down, I know most of you have also driven with alcohol in your system at some time or another in your lives. So don't judge him on the same things that you've done just because he happened to get caught. He's not the first football player to be in the media and he won't be the last so....GET OVER IT ALREADY!
Posted by: Dave Location: Greenville on Oct 27, 2008 at 08:19 PM
All you need to get into ECU is a 2.0 and you can tell by the players behavior and interviews that they are lucky to have such a high GPA.
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Oct 24, 2008 at 09:58 PM
It is absolutely laughable what people think their tax money pays for. They will throw it up in any and every post. I just bought a new mail box...did your tax money pay for that? Your tax money WILL pay for Williams in prison if he doesn't realize that the world doesn't owe him anything....and he has a free ride at ECU. All he has to do is play "the good little football player" because folks are getting tired of his tantrums. But then you have people saying don't judge..if you don't tell this young man he is wrong then how do you expect for him to change? If I'm not mistaken in court...don't they have....Judges? If he messes up 43 more times, oh well. He's not my boy, I'll just sit here in my computer chair and shake my head while some of you enable a habitual minor criminal take his record to felon. Congratulations on your new citizen. I hope he does rob you in the future when you knew in the past that he had problems in the present!
Posted by: deer hunter Location: woods! on Oct 24, 2008 at 07:52 PM
I'll take it, Anybody can attend ECU. It doesn't take much brain matter to make it at ECU. Who is more desperate your daughter or you? Please post more desperate jokes...
Posted by: Lisa Location: Greenville on Oct 24, 2008 at 06:57 PM
This young man should be held accountable and his scholarship should be taken, not to mention whatever funds he has used thus far he should have to repay. He doesnt need to be representing ECU on any aspect. But Im almost positive that he will get a slap on the wrist and will be back playing in no time.
Posted by: anonymous Location: greenville on Oct 24, 2008 at 05:31 PM
To Concerned: Your taxes do not pay athletes scholarships. That's all private/donated money from the pirate club. Having said that, his scholarship should be taken away as well as his freedom.
Posted by: fmrecpirate on Oct 24, 2008 at 08:20 AM
"Concerned"....I understand your frustrations but why bring up race....white, black, yellow, green...a victim is a victim. This is a case where ECU took a chance on a talented athlete with a suspect lifestyle and they got burnt. It is time to cut the losses and move on! And about the school not knowing about the DUI....I am sure there are 100's of students at ECU that get DUI's the school will never know occur. I played @ ECU in the early to mid 80's and believe me...the scholarship is nice but being a student athlete is not what ESPN and other medias make it out to be.....please understand I am not making excuses for this young man - he has made some poor choices that he will have to live with for the rest of his life.
Posted by: Concerned Location: Eastern North Carolina on Oct 24, 2008 at 12:22 AM
Isn;t this a shame this young man has recently gotten in trouble again after the DUI and the school did not know about it and now he is out assaulting innocent people with beer bottles. And, one of them apparently a lady. He is really a person u want your children to look up to. It also appears this just possibly is gang related and this country has no room for any gangs whatsoever. It would be interesting 2 know the victims race also as this may be part of his problem as all prejudice is not in just one race as some people believe. Anyway, he needs to go to the penal system and let some of them inside know what he has done and they will have him broke down just like a shotgun. ECU u need 2 rid your campus of individual like this and make sure they pay the money back if they were on scholarships as it is our tax money that supports some of that and I would rather have my tax money support him in prison.
Posted by: Not surprised Location: Greenville on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:01 PM
Williams has not been proven guilty, but he has exhited enough inappropriate behavior to know he has an attitude problem. He reminds me of the people Obama mentions in his comment to "Joe, the Plumber" when he says, "I want others behind you to have a chance". Williams has been given plenty of opportunity and he has blown it. Don't even begin to blame others, like is usually the case. Don't even think of blaming society, or the cops, or alcohol, etc. It's totally on his shoulders. If proven guilty of any of his many charges, he should have to repay every cent he has taken from the school. He is an embarrassment.
Posted by: 1fansopinion Location: Greenville on Oct 23, 2008 at 06:41 PM
He should be kicked off the team and made to repay his scholarship.
Posted by: P Location: Washington on Oct 23, 2008 at 01:26 PM
Tarpacker....well isn't that the pot calling the kettle black. Look at all the off the field problems the UNC and NCSU programs have had in the last several years. Its kind of hard to see your own faults, isn't it.
Posted by: I'll take it Location: Greenville on Oct 23, 2008 at 12:57 PM
Just send me his scholarship... my daughter will be attending in the fall. She can use it and not abuse it!!! Hope he is gone soon.
Posted by: Scott Location: New Bern on Oct 23, 2008 at 12:31 PM
What a waste!! Waste of talent but more importantly, a waste of a scholarship that a law abiding student could of used and more importantly appreciated. You're good on the field punk but life is so much more than yards gained on the football field. Hope he's gone forever!! ECU or any other school for that matter does not need someone like him. However, there may be hope, the LA Raiders may be interested!! You should give Al Davis a call.
Posted by: Loving People to Jesus Location: Greenville on Oct 23, 2008 at 12:17 PM
It is so hard to see young men that are so gifted turn to things that are dark and full of evil.The love of Jesus and the Hope of Christ is the only thing that will change some people.There is still hope, look at Josh Hamilton (NLB player)and the life he has had.May Williams realize before it is too late that this life is not about us and all the things this World has to offer.A gift of playing football has been granted to him, it is time that he allow that gift to be used to encourge young boys and girls to stay on the straight and narrow, because the wide way of destruction is right around the corner.He may have 40,000 fans pulling for him on Saturdays, but he currently has the weight of Satan weighing on his shoulders.May this be an example to our community that this is a young may from Pitt county that has allowed himself to be influenced by evil and not Light.Football may have kept in high school, but it won't provide his life needs if he does not change one day.
Posted by: 93P Location: Greenville on Oct 23, 2008 at 12:10 PM
Thug Williams is at it again and I don't think he'll be back. I am a diehard Pirate but you need to rid yourself of this thug. I'm tired of seeing him in the news and making my University look bad.
Posted by: Tarpacker Location: Ahoskie on Oct 23, 2008 at 11:46 AM
Sorry to hear such a choirboy has yet another strike against him,Lets see in most things in life 3 strikes and you are out.It will be interesting to see if the same holds true for ole Easy U.The old adage of you lie down with dogs you get flea still holds true. So sad flea bites and all BCS hopes gone,except maybe the Tidy bowl. I feel your pain.
Posted by: Keith Location: Greenville on Oct 23, 2008 at 11:35 AM
This guy has alot of talent, but he has chose to do the wrong things. ECU should just kick him out of the program all together. He has been given chance after chance. Because ECU is a big football school, nothing will happen to him. It will all blow over soon. I wonder what else has he done that the school and the public doesn't know about. Unless these players commit murder, Athletics will not kick them off the team. They make to much money for the school.
Posted by: Time 2 Step up! Location: Greenville on Oct 23, 2008 at 11:22 AM
Sorry "MOM", I can spell, I was just typing in a hurry and my ECU education did not catch it! Any how, my point is the same! LOL
Posted by: Tm Location: nc on Oct 23, 2008 at 10:45 AM
some of us have all made bad decisions, maybe this is an awakening to what the future holds unless we change our path...such a great talent!
Posted by: are you kidding Location: greenville on Oct 23, 2008 at 10:34 AM
Anyone who wants to hold judgement on this should have come out to North Campus Crossing and seen the blood that was on the floors of the apartment building where the assault happened. Or maybe you should have witnessed the fight and heard the gang slang that was being used. Sometimes you have to choose between being a D-1 athlete or being a thug with your boys and he obviously made the wrong choice. 3 strikes and you're out.
Posted by: what? Location: G'ville on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:54 AM
He has 3 different addresses? One warrant has 2 and the other has an even different address.
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:51 AM
He'll never change until he realizes what he is doing is wrong. You can't save the ones that don't want to be saved....as old folk use to say. This young man is just that...a man. And people, he's decided to learn every lesson the hard way. No one and I repeat...no one plays the game that well. He may be talented, he may be gifted, but he is also trouble. He could turn his life around...the question is...Does he want to?
Posted by: john Location: greenville on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:33 AM
alcohol makes u very disturb,he had a good thing going til partying & drinking. now his career gone down hill,his job will be on the streets and working in construction probably; or wendys
Posted by: here Location: here on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:03 AM
Me again. Oh yeah! And didn't Terry Holland just get a $34,000 dollar raise!? COME ON! What has he done to deserve this? Would someone explain that one to me.
Posted by: here Location: here on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:00 AM
I noticed last night on ESPN, 10/22/08, that 'ol ECU made the ticker again at the bottom. For something positive you may ask? NO! Just that an ECU player had been arrested. Wow! Its seems all the national cover this silly school can manage to muster is NEGATIVE. That should be good for recruits Huh? That is a good public national image.
Posted by: barbara Location: oak city on Oct 22, 2008 at 11:28 PM
ECU needs to sent him packing !!! we don't people like him around our school ...Maybe one day we will see him cleaning the floors at McDoanlds !!!!!!!
Posted by: Talon Location: NC on Oct 22, 2008 at 10:48 PM
I met his Mom not long ago. She is a very nice lady. I'll pray for God to ease the pain her son is causing her.
Posted by: Not shocked Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 10:12 PM
Well...although I hate the light shed on the Pirate nation, I'm not shocked. The picture shown on TV shows the "gang" cut eyebrows and I understand he's not sure which he wants more...the team or the gang. Clearly he is choosing the gang. Get him out...should have been let go after his shoe incident in Hawaii last year. Now how many more charges? Does he think the city owes him? Guess he'll just have to learn the hard way. Sorry for ya! Looks like you better get an education for real now! Football isn't gonna get ya far. Well...unless Michael Vick is your hero!!
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 10:01 PM
Maybe Skip should call Dr. Lou for advice...actually scratch that. Call Joe Paterno. I lost count how many suspensions were on that team and now they're 3rd in the nation. Give him a pointer or two JoPa on how to keep the team straight. Jonathan...I honestly hope you can turn yourself around. You've def. got talent, but you need character and discipline to compliment it.
Posted by: Dave Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 09:32 PM
Greenville athlethes, you have my condolences for living in this rut for 35 years.
Posted by: sad Location: enc on Oct 22, 2008 at 09:11 PM
Its a shame. So much potential to take his talent and utilize it to obtain an education. He has set a pattern and has been conditioned by enviromental conditions to act in this way. Sad. Maybe one day the light will come on up top for him, hopefully before it's too late. Suspend him indefinitely! Serious anger management and counseling is needed.
Posted by: Greenville athletes on Oct 22, 2008 at 06:59 PM
I have lived in Greenville for 35 years. We have had many athletes play on college teams that have been exemplary role models to their hometown communities. Taylor Gagnon, a former JHRose basketball and baseball player, walked on the ECU Basketball team. He was one of the hardest working Pirates, and earned a scholarship his senior year. He gives back to the community by coaching baseball, and took his team, along with other fine coaches to the World Series. We do have fine athletes in Greenville, and I agree with the fact that a good upbringing and makes the world of difference.
Posted by: Cactus Location: Strabane,NC on Oct 22, 2008 at 06:06 PM
Using a beer bottle just proves that the big man is a coward. High schools seem to make "kings" of "ballers" by letting them slide in studies, someone in the community gives them cars, motorcycles etc, and let them have their way no matter what because they play well. Most do not play well enough to get into college, and those that do most times can not keep up a required grade point adverage. So why should this young man be any different. Visions of M. Vick. Parents should be the role model for their kids but that is not always the case.
Posted by: pirate Location: greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 05:21 PM
Hmm, maybe third time's a charm with the liberal media filtering out my comments... This dude is a thug and should be let go from the team. His actions are not any different than when he was in highschool at Rose when he was ejected from a playoff game for kicking the other team's players. Skip should just cut his losses and move on to more well mannered players.
Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 22, 2008 at 04:45 PM
Unload the garbage from the sinking ship...He is a LOSER to do this to innocent people who are out having a good time.
Posted by: Moderator Location: witn.com on Oct 22, 2008 at 04:03 PM
To Lee: WITN News questioned Greenville police about the blank narrative on the report. Cpl. Kip Gaskins, the department's public information officer, told us there was no supplemental report containing a narrative. He said that the only information as to what happened was on the arrest warrant. We actually requested the "incident report" for the offense through the N.C. Open Records Law and we received a document titled "Arrest Report".
Posted by: anonymous Location: greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 03:55 PM
if it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it's a duck. he's a criminal. Kick him off the team and save ECU even further embarrassment. Anytbody who thinks we should hold judgement now is crazy. In baseball you get 3 strikes. This moron is out....and it's ashamed. He's got so much potential, or had I should say.
Posted by: Lee Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 03:47 PM
There was no information in the narrative section of the arrest report, due to all this information being on an incident report, which WITN does not have. The incident report has a description of the incident with victims and suspects. I seriously doubt ECU nor Greenville tried to cover up that he was an ECU student and football player. Williams probably told them he went to PCC to cover himself. Like I have said before, it is time for our judicial system in Pitt County to handle the crime in Greenville, and stop just slapping people on the wrist. I work in Pitt County as a police officer and I get tired of arresting these criminals and their out of jail before I finish the paperwork.
Posted by: Anonymous Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 03:15 PM
Okay everyone let's hold judgement until this comes upon your child or relative. We are all guilty of judging one another from the mere fact of charges and we seem to be happy when bad falls upon an individual, sure if all this is true he needs to be punished but let's leave that up to the judicial system and ECU. Remember somewhere out there we all have family members or friends and the tables can turn into the direction of us all without a blink of an eye. So lets hold off with the harsh comments and name calling it doesn't solve anything. I am sure that Mr. Williams has or will learn from these mistakes and we can only hope and Pray that he can move on and have a good and decent life. And to his parents just pray that God will intervene in his life. Also not matter what don't give up on you child this is a time that he will need more than ever. To all the reader put God first in your life and save your judgemental comments, if you cant say anything positve don't say anything at all.
Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 22, 2008 at 03:12 PM
Forget being a football player, why is he even still a student at ECU?
Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 22, 2008 at 03:09 PM
This is a reminder to never squander an opportunity, big or small, to give our youth a good sense of direction and purpose.
Posted by: Astounded on Oct 22, 2008 at 02:57 PM
It seems as though we are constantly surprised that athletes and celebrities think they are "above the law", but this is where it starts. Hold this man accountable for his actions and end his sporting career now.
Posted by: Rick Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 02:55 PM
You know what is expected of you when you get the "free ride" to play football, or any other sport. Kass, Williams, and others should be gone, instead of Skippy just beating around the bush.
Posted by: ECU fan Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 02:26 PM
I hate to say it but... kick him off the team and throw him in JAIL. There's his wake up call
Posted by: Courtney Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 01:57 PM
This to me just proves how much crime goes on in Greenville. What do you think our "outstanding" police chief will do about all this? I feel sorry for the ECU football team, all the other great players get bad names because of people like Williams.
Posted by: To James Location: USA on Oct 22, 2008 at 01:54 PM
no need to cover up his address, it's public knowledge. if he wanted it covered up, he shouldn't have been involved with what is alleged
Posted by: Rick Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 01:50 PM
Ed...Any thought to the possibility that Williams told them he was a PCC student so that people wouldn't realize he was the ECU running back?
Posted by: Sue on Oct 22, 2008 at 01:49 PM
It's time ECU kick the reputation for being a PARTY SCHOOL and get the reputation for excellence in education-caring for our young adults and putting them on a positive course in life!!!! I think that is what Skip is trying to do with his football players. Kass was dealt with and now Williams is being dealt with, star or not.
Posted by: MOM on Oct 22, 2008 at 01:48 PM
Time 2 Step up! That would be scholarship with an "a" and involved not "envolved".
Posted by: Time 2 Step up! Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 01:26 PM
"fmrecpirate" I think we are on the same page about his scholorship maybe I just didn't explain myself well enough. I was also a student athelete and I do know there is a lot of work envolved in keeping a scholorship. But if you are willing, the work isn't that hard compared to the worth of his scholorship. It is a shame that someone with the talent of JW doesn't know how to behave! When I was in school I took extra, extra care not to get into bad situations. "K" I know most of these young men are good kids, but I also know for a fact there have been other players (not all of them stars) with warrants dating back to last season. I like Coach Holtz but I believe the school needs to get a handle on this before it gets worse. Stars or not, they represent the University and more importantly our community!
Posted by: James Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 01:18 PM
at least have some descency and cover his home address
Posted by: Chris Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 12:55 PM
scout team with jamar bryant, then when this goes to court, if he's guilty, he's gotta be gone for good
Posted by: Palinsux Location: All Over on Oct 22, 2008 at 12:46 PM
Sounds like ECU should be renamed Eastern Criminal University. This is really sad.
Posted by: killzone Location: farmville on Oct 22, 2008 at 12:46 PM
This "MAN" has had plenty of chances. I don't understand why he and others do not take personal responsibility for their actions. You are given the world and could potentially, God willing, make millions of dollars as a pro athlete, to just throw it all away. What is so hard about staying out of trouble? If you offered me a scholarship or the opportunity to play college ball and to "may be" one day go pro, I would do whatever you said do. Study, be in on time, whatever. I just don't understand why he and others disrespect themselves, their parent or parents, and their team. I just don't understand.
Posted by: K Location: Washington on Oct 22, 2008 at 12:19 PM
It is a shame, that since JW has been arrested, the whole team seems to be labeled as thugs. People really need to be careful. There are over 100 kids involved with ECU football and only 1, that I know of, has been arrested. JW should be kicked off the team and have his scholarship revoked. Just do not label the entire team thugs. Most of these young men are excellent role models for the kids.
Posted by: AL Location: GREEN Co on Oct 22, 2008 at 12:17 PM
This young man is in need of some serious discipline. He needs his free ride taken away from him. He is an embarrassment to us all.He needs to man up and take his punishment like a man and not a baby!Be responsible for his actions. If I were Holtz,I would have kicked all the bad apples off the team. No chances! Especially with DWI's! Now assault and battery ? No more chances. It does bring the team down!
Posted by: Wilma Location: G-VEGAS on Oct 22, 2008 at 12:14 PM
Mr. Williams.....it was nice to see you on the field for a season or two. Make sure you upsize my fries and drink just the way I like it done.
Posted by: fmrecpirate on Oct 22, 2008 at 11:33 AM
Well first off "Time 2 Step up!"I do agree with you that athletic department needs to do some housekeeping however the comment you made regarding "the free gift".I have to disagree-that is something that is earned each and everyday...when they obtain a scholarship it is reviewed after each semester and you continue to earn that with your grades and your overall performance as a student/athlete/member of the community. Now with that said this particular young man may learn the hard way (pending the cases against him) that this is not a gift that comes for free. Now "mom" I have the upmost respect for my mother and you as a mother as well but I have to respectfully disagree with your comments as well. As an athlete when you do get into trouble it is news however your other students you get into trouble you will hardly ever hear it. My point is he made a mistake which I don't condone but as a former student athlete I would like for you to walk in the shoes of an athleteit is not all that!
Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 22, 2008 at 11:32 AM
Another charge has been posted on the docket for Williams: 2 counts of assault with a deadly weapong. This happened this weekend. Arraigned Offenses for Case Number: 2008060686 CR Arraigned Defendant Name: WILLIAMS,JONATHON,EDWARDS County: PITT Court Date: 11/19/2008 Session: AM Court Room: DC01 Offense Code Description Statute 1388 Misdemeanor ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON 14-33(C)(1)
Posted by: Jacob Location: G'ville on Oct 22, 2008 at 11:29 AM
It reflects negatively upon ECU athletics, but if he is guilty of any crime he should receive the corresponding punishment. No more, no less.
Posted by: Dwayne Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 11:27 AM
This young man is loaded with talent. Unfortunately, if he's guilty, Coach Holtz is going to have to pull a Tressel. Ohio State had a running back (Heisman material) loaded with talent. He couldn't stay out of trouble and Coach Tressel let him go.
Posted by: Ed Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 11:10 AM
Anyone wonder why there was no informaiton onthe Police Report? And why he waslisted as a PCC student. Could it be the University and Police were trying to cover it up since the media has access to the reports? Just wondering
Posted by: pirate Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 11:04 AM
Hes just another Greenville thug from Rose HS. He hasn't changed from his HS days. He can't even play in the playoffs in HS without getting thrown out of the game for kicking other team's players. And now this? If he hasn't changed by now, he'll never change.
Posted by: Time 2 Step up! Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 10:59 AM
It's a shame that this kid can't stay out of trouble. I know he is a hometown hero but it seems he can't handle the pressure. We keep hearing about ECU Atheletics taking the next step and trying to get into a big time conference, well if you ask me they need to take care of the season at hand and get control of their players. It sounds like these kids don't appreciate the gift they've been given to attend school for free. Just think, if the liberals get in office all of the thugs can attend school on us!!!!!
Posted by: Pete Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 08:36 AM
Hate to say it but if you play with fire you going to get burned. Johnthan has to figure out what he wants to do with his life. Its up to him! Maybe a change of location,freinds, and life style will be good for the young man. He has talent but the bad thing is he knows it,its time to become humble and realize that you are fourtunate.
Posted by: Sharon on Oct 22, 2008 at 08:19 AM
It looks to me that these young adults would have learned a lesson from the Michael Vick story. I pray this young man can get on the straight path and use his God-given talents in a positive way.
Posted by: ????? Location: NC on Oct 22, 2008 at 07:43 AM
I know this young man did wrong and he needs some discipline , but what does your hateful and negative comments say to this young man? He has a lot of talent and needs some mentoriing and guidance to address his problem. Should he be playing while this is going on? NO, but you can't just drop him either, he needs help to get himself straight. As far as the police go, I have seen this type of thing first hand. Once they "get you" for something and one of them doesn't "like" you, they are like hungry hunting dogs on ham bone! They look for opportunities to nail you! It's their word against yours and most of the time "they" win. Our state has produced many outsanding atheletes and it wouuld be a shame for this to end his carreer. Most young kids are out there doing the same things as others, some just don't get "caught". Jesus was crucified and He was GOD's son! What if this kid was yours, would you want to read some of the comments about yours that are posted here? I think not.
Posted by: Rick Location: Greenville on Oct 22, 2008 at 07:31 AM
What in the world has happened to our program in the last couple of years?? We have turned into a Thugville, comparable to the like of Miami or Florida State. Good Grief!!! Really puts down our program in a big way to have all of this happening in the last year or so. If we have to get THUGS to win games, I would just as soon lose!!!
Posted by: john Location: nc on Oct 22, 2008 at 03:22 AM
why did jamar byrant get suspended off the team??
Posted by: ?? Location: nc on Oct 22, 2008 at 03:18 AM
what did Jamar byrant do to get kicked off the team??
Posted by: rick Location: bethel on Oct 22, 2008 at 12:45 AM
Will. It's clear you have an inferiority complex and like lashing out at others. Focus on doing anything competently in your own life and then wory about criticizing others.
Posted by: bird Location: Greenville on Oct 21, 2008 at 11:57 PM
This is carzy i went to school with this man... Jon you messed up, things happen, they call it life... im not going to hate on u because u messed upped, this is your life you are the on that has to live it... but what ever happens baby boy keep you head up.
Posted by: Jimbo Location: NC on Oct 21, 2008 at 11:25 PM
Plain and simple. This guy is a thug and being a thug is more important than being a student athlete. I would just as soon lose out the rest of the season than have a punk like this on the team.
Posted by: MH Location: Eastern, N.C. on Oct 21, 2008 at 10:39 PM
Young Man, you have ventured into the positive land of ECU. There are so many athletes that would treasure your opportunity. If one can't support honor (responsibility), courage (moral and mental) and commitment (to yourself/team) than relinquish your scholarship (if it applies) to one of superior values. Note: If the ECU Family can save the young man, than do so. But, if the straw has been broken in ref. to incidents than he must go. No individual is larger than team.
Posted by: Moderator on Oct 21, 2008 at 10:31 PM
To the previous posts.. We get our information confirmed through the police and athletic spokespeople. Like any other media outlet we use all different sources, including local sports websites, but that is not our sole means of information and we certainly confirm everything we put on the air.
Posted by: Research Location: Greenville on Oct 21, 2008 at 10:23 PM
I think that the WITN reporters do their research off of boneyardbanter.com This was discussed and confirmed the other night!
Posted by: Dave Location: Greenville on Oct 21, 2008 at 10:11 PM
He needs to be KICKED off the team. This needs to be a lesson to the rest of the players. Besides, he should have thought about the consequences before he acted upon breaking the law.
Posted by: Will Location: Greenville on Oct 21, 2008 at 09:54 PM
This was made public knowledge by your news team and your people. Why did it take you so long to make it public knowledge?
Posted by: Dontae Location: Goldsboro on Oct 21, 2008 at 09:41 PM
Teresa Watson...your heart is in the right place but I'm worried about what your saying. Don't worry about the football fans. There entitled to there opinions. Jonathan isn't going to college because he had good grades. He's at ECU because of football. But that ain't important now either. All that matters is he's at ECU with a chance to get a degree and change his life and maybe the lives of all the Williams that come after him. If your close to him, which i get the impression you are, don't fill his head with junk about who got his back and who's hating on him. Talk to him about the life changing opportunity he has if he graduates. He's gonna be done playing football in 2 years when his eligibility is up anyway. A degree will last forever and so will getting charges on his record.Even if he don't play football again he's already halfway done with college. Talk to that young man about real life. Not this junk about who got his back.
Posted by: Mel Location: WV on Oct 21, 2008 at 09:22 PM
Please tell me why these kids are driving? WALK? Oh thats right, if you walk you will get mugged..These kids would rather chase girls than salvage the season. It makes me sick
Posted by: Moderator Location: WITN on Oct 21, 2008 at 09:15 PM
To the poster about why this hasn't been reported. This information was not made public knowledge until now.
Posted by: Will Location: Greenville on Oct 21, 2008 at 08:59 PM
MODERATOR.....Please explain why WITN is 2 weeks late in breaking this story? Why is it that it took such a great news team 2 weeks to hear that a kid got arrested and write a story on it? Sure says alot for the WITN "news team."
Posted by: Teresa Watson Location: Smitfield on Oct 21, 2008 at 08:17 PM
It is obvious that every one is keeping up with the status of Johnathan Williams. Sure, Jon has made some serious mistakes, and everything he does is being posted for everyone to see and comment on. I realize this and so does Johnathan that everyone does not wish you well and good success, but guess what, this to shall pass. We do not know the outcome as of yet, but to the ones that are waiting for his failure, continue to watch. Sometimes you have to be knock down before you can rise back up. And when he does he will know who truly had his back. As long as Johnathan is running down the field with that football in his hand everyone except his enemy is happy, feeling good, giving him pats on the back, gestures such as way to go, good game and please lets not forget the so call fans getting drunk at the tailgate parties. It's amazing but to not suprise, the same individuals that supported him is now saying crucify him, crucify him. WOW. The enemy is having a field day.
Posted by: To dontae on Oct 21, 2008 at 08:14 PM
Best post so far.
Posted by: dontae Location: goldsboro on Oct 21, 2008 at 08:02 PM
Jonny W. If you're reading this...It's time to move on brother. It's hard to put distance between you and your boys, I know cause I've had to do it. You got to realize at some point though, this ain't workin out for you. Whether you ever play football again or not, just get your degree and move on. You already been arrested twice in 6 months and lookin at another investigation according to your coach. That means you ain't so good at being bad my friend. I promise you them girls at ECU look a whole lot better then them men in prison. Do what you got to do to move on.
Posted by: John Location: Raleigh on Oct 21, 2008 at 07:27 PM
He is innocent until proven guilty. So far the charges are not earth shattering for any college student. If you kick him off the team, he will decline as a person. At least football gives him structure. Hopefully he will get straightened out. The coaches will see that the punishment fits his particular situation. Not any of you omniscient delegators.
Posted by: sped Location: Bertie on Oct 21, 2008 at 07:05 PM
Where are all you liberals? Awe--give the boy, another chance-----I can hear it now. Laws never mean what they say to liberals.
Posted by: The Pirate Lady Location: Grimesland on Oct 21, 2008 at 06:03 PM
Okay, I've had a chance to hear more about all of this; the Oct. 5 incident doesn't seem to be completely his fault. And I agree that we should reserve judgment until we get all the facts. But, if this young man has been given multiple chances to get his act together, and he hasn't, then Skip should do the right thing and punish him accordingly. Whether they want to be or not, the men and women that play sports for ECU represent the university and should do so in a way that doesn't shed a bad light on the university or themselves. Jonathan has too much promise to risk throwing it away.
Posted by: TO Dwayne Location: Pitt on Oct 21, 2008 at 05:54 PM
The charge is "resist, delay, obstruct." There does not have to be physical resistance for the elements of this charge to be met. Disobeying a lawful command would suffice under most circumstances. If you were an officer at a domestic situation, and you told one party to stay back away from you, or sit down, and they didn't, that would likely be enough to charge and convict. Every situation is different. Domestic incidents are statistically among the most dangerous situations law officers encounter, and this officer was likely trying to prevent an escalation of the situation.
Posted by: The Pirate Lady Location: Grimesland on Oct 21, 2008 at 04:14 PM
So what was the domestic issue?
Posted by: Raleigh on Oct 21, 2008 at 03:46 PM
The arrest record indicates this is a misdemeanor charge and there is no narrative to explain. I know this is strike two, but we do not know the circumstances and should withold judgement until then. From watching the beating of students on ESPNHD, I'm not so sure about Pitt Co. police.
Posted by: Joe Location: Gville on Oct 21, 2008 at 03:43 PM
Dan...re-read the story. Re-read the reports.
Posted by: carl Location: Greenville on Oct 21, 2008 at 03:27 PM
As far as him playing after the DWI, I beleive they are referring to the Spring Game which he did play in a week after the DWI...Send Him packing SKIP!!!
Posted by: Moderator Location: witn.com on Oct 21, 2008 at 03:03 PM
On the arrest report it lists his "occupation" as a student, and his "employer" as PCC. In police reports this is done to show he was a student at PCC, not that he actually worked there.
Posted by: teacher1 Location: Greenville on Oct 21, 2008 at 03:02 PM
I know John. This comes as no shock. We tried to help him but to no avail. He is ruining a golden oppurtunity.
Posted by: Dan Location: Pirate Country on Oct 21, 2008 at 02:50 PM
After viewing both arrest reports provided, there is nothing that states whether he is attending ECU or PCC. Only that he was booked into PCDC. Come on WITN.
Posted by: Dwayne Location: Greenville on Oct 21, 2008 at 02:30 PM
Have a seat and not move. Resisting, yea right. These officers will work good in the obama socialist state.
Posted by: Chris Location: Greenville on Oct 21, 2008 at 01:51 PM
Brandon Simmons and Norman Whitley are good kids and talented Runningbacks. It might hurt not being able to have Williams too, but the Pirates will get by. How many strikes does this kid get, by my count its 4 now. Put the Program first Skip
Posted by: ECUSTUDENT Location: Greenville on Oct 21, 2008 at 01:48 PM
Dave, of course the students rushed the field, we beat the number 8 team in the country and did what any students at any university would have done. In the police report it states he did not consume alcohol, or drugs, and there is not a written statement of what he did wrong. If you ask me it looks like the cop was a jealous ncstate grad.
Posted by: Dave Location: Greenville on Oct 21, 2008 at 01:13 PM
Fans rushing the field, a player suspended for the season, and now THIS? The Pirate Nation should be ashamed!
Posted by: Curious on Oct 21, 2008 at 01:04 PM
A PCC student? One has to wonder if GPD just made a mistake or if Williams was trying to lead everyone astray??
Posted by: Dwayne Location: Greenville on Oct 21, 2008 at 01:04 PM
I will advocate. Law enforcement officers are allowed to charge an individual with "resisting" upon there own discretion. It appears few officers realize that a "resisting" conviction can result in not being able to obtain employment. Even a charge, can go against you. Officers simply appear to not be willing to negotiate and communicate properly. I received a "resisting" charge by a PCSD officer. The charge was bogus, I had to go thru the process of obtaining an "expunction of the record" for a finding of get this "not guilty". I personally believe that some officers are looking to bully people around and use the law to back their inappropriate actions. For those of you who defend our rights and laws, I commend you. There are usually three sides, yours, theirs, and the truth.
Posted by: anonymous on Oct 21, 2008 at 12:52 PM
Did he really resist? That is what allegedly happened. Let's not jump to conclusions. Police officers are no better.
Posted by: Outside Greenville Location: NC on Oct 21, 2008 at 12:50 PM
Hey Anonymous... he got his DWI back in the spring... granted my opinion is he should have been suspended for the VT game, but he didn't play the following weekend because they didn't have a game the following weekend in the spring.
Posted by: wkl Location: ENC on Oct 21, 2008 at 12:47 PM
Same ole, Same ole
Posted by: Outside Greenville Location: NC on Oct 21, 2008 at 12:34 PM
Mom, I agree with statement on ECU athletes if you'll do one thing... remove ECU... this is not something that is ECU specific... unfortunately it's a lot of atheletes, especially football players.
Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 21, 2008 at 12:25 PM
"Williams played the following weekend after his arrest (DWI) and as far as they knew he had not been disciplined. HELLO That's the problem NO DISCILINE! Jon is good at running with the Football....problem is he's just as good at running his mouth! He is a med. size fish is a small pond. PERIOD!
Posted by: mom Location: nc on Oct 21, 2008 at 12:13 PM
I've said this for a while: ECU athletes think they have special rights. For some reason when they play for a college team, they feel they are entitled to do things that are against the law. By ALL means I think that he should be treated just like anyone else would be treated. Just because he wears a jersey with a college name on it doesn't give him the right to break the law..and think he's going to get away with it.
Posted by: Devil Dog Location: New Bern on Oct 21, 2008 at 12:11 PM
PARENTS should be the role models. Unfortunately, alot of parents are worse role models than the athletes!
Posted by: Moderator Location: witn.com on Oct 21, 2008 at 11:45 AM
To Pete and others: WITN has a copy of the arrest warrant from the Clerk of Courts office. It was our original source of verifying this story before posting it online. We're in the process of putting it online.
Posted by: Wilma Location: Boogahville, GA on Oct 21, 2008 at 11:44 AM
If kids are looking up to ECU athletes, they need to start using professional athletes as role models. There are just as many arrests and disappointments on a professional level. Aim high kids! Seriously though, what a disappointment. Do ECU football players think they are actually above the rules and the law? I know that most of the players stay out of trouble, but this is ECU.....it's not exactly the center of the universe. Another fine example of the under 21 crowd screwing up and putting other's in harms way.
Posted by: Don Location: Elizabeth City NC. on Oct 21, 2008 at 11:44 AM
Regardless of the outcome of the season. Jon needs to go. How disappointing for this team and the entire ECU pirate nation. But we don't want to have the rep, that other universities have. I.E. we cant be another Vick. He is not above the law or that of team rules. This is not a ball game where its 3 strikes and your out. He should be OUT now.
Posted by: Pete on Oct 21, 2008 at 11:28 AM
If the Greenville PD records division can't produce a document showing it happened and "someone" in the ECU Athletic Dept doesn't know about it (could be anyone) then how can you possibly run a story stating JW "faces more charges." It's completely unfounded. At best it should have been "possibly faces new charges." Even if it turns out to be true this is poor reporting if you ask me. Cart before the horse with nothing to back it up. When you can back it up then print it.
Posted by: mom on Oct 21, 2008 at 11:27 AM
Furthermore...can't find the documents? Hmmmm...
Posted by: mom on Oct 21, 2008 at 11:24 AM
Jonathan Williams, Max Joyner....Greenville can do much better than this.
Posted by: jerry Location: goldsboro on Oct 21, 2008 at 11:24 AM
If there is no document then there is no arrest
Posted by: a mom and teacher on Oct 21, 2008 at 11:11 AM
Come on Jon...you are representing a great football team and as a running back. you need not think you can be above the law. this may be the end if you don't straighten up. your mom needs to ground you.
Posted by: Pirate Fan Location: Greenville on Oct 21, 2008 at 11:05 AM
It is a shame that someone with so much talent has to go out and act like a fool and do stupid things.This is the second time this year that he has been arrested and he is still on the team. Come on,Coach Holtz, sure he has talent,but he should not be allowed to play or even be on the team for that matter.Our youth look up to players like him,and this is not someone that I would want my child to want to be like.Show these players that they cannot be rewarded for their stupid actions. Dismiss him from the squad.
 
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