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UPDATE: Former Rose Star Signed With ECU Faces 8 Charges Save Email Print
Posted: 4:08 PM Jul 10, 2008
 Last Updated: 9:59 AM Jul 11, 2008
119 comments
A | A | A

New information about former J.H. Rose football player Max Joyner, who signed to play with the ECU Pirates, and now faces an assault charge.

This apparently is not the only charge he faces.

A check of the North Carolina Court System calendar shows a total of eight misdemeanor charges against Joyner. The latest is the assault inflicting serious injury from Wednesday. The others include assault,, assault on a government official, intoxicated and disruptive, consuming alcohol underage, resisting a public officer, another assault on a government official, and another resisting a public officer.

Joyner, the son of Greenville city councilman Max Joyner Junior, was arrested early Wednesday morning in Greenville and charged with the assault inflicting serious injury. The court calendar doesn't say what the other charges stem from.

ECU head football coach Skip Holtz says Joyner is suspended indefinitely.

Original Story

A former Rose High School football player signed to East Carolina University in Greenville is facing an assault charge.

Reports show linebacker Max Joyner was arrested early Wednesday morning in Greenville and charged with assault inflicting serious injury. That is a misdemeanor charge.

Joyner was held at the Pitt County detention center on $1,000 secured bond.

Joyner was expected to officially join the East Carolina Football program on August first when all players are scheduled to report to campus for the beginning of fall drills.

ECU head football coach Skip Holtz released a statement through the ECU sports information department stating "at this point, Max Joyner has been suspended from the program indefinitely for violation of team rules."

Below is the news release from the ECU Athletics office:


July 10, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE/Upon Receipt

COLLEGE FOOTBALL
ECU Freshman Linebacker Max Joyner Suspended Indefinitely
Coach Skip Holtz Announces Disciplinary Action Because Of A
Violation Of Team Rules

GREENVILLE, N.C. - East Carolina freshman linebacker Max Joyner has
been suspended indefinitely for a violation of team rules according to
an announcement from head football coach Skip Holtz Thursday
afternoon.

Joyner, who enrolled at ECU at the start of Summer Session II on June
25, officially signed with Holtz' program last February after a
successful local prep career at J.H. Rose High School. He was listed
among the 105 players scheduled to report for the opening of the
Pirates' preseason camp on August 1 prior to the disciplinary action.

"At this point, Max Joyner has been suspended indefinitely from the
football program for a violation of team rules," Holtz said. The fourth-year ECU head coach did not address specifics of the suspension but
indicated that the matter would be re-evaluated at a later time.

Joyner earned two varsity letters and was a part of three 4-A state
championship squads at J.H. Rose. He recorded seven interceptions
primarily as a defensive back for a 16-0 Rampants team as a junior and
was chosen to the all-county and all-conference squads before picking
off two additional passes as a senior in 2007.
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Posted by: simple on Jul 16, 2008 at 09:36 PM
How many times do I have to post this question? Is it TRUE the beer throwing incident? WHY is this question deliberately omitted?
Posted by: Robert Hue on Jul 16, 2008 at 11:21 AM
This weekend 5 football players got drinking tickets. Did any of them get publicity like this? Not at ALL. That says something.

Editor's Note: Can you please send the information you have on the tickets to desk@witntv.com?

Posted by: By Grace we are saved! on Jul 16, 2008 at 10:15 AM
After commenting last night, I just wanted to add this. A lot of teenagers are out there doing the same as what Max did, but they just don't get caught. My child went to JH ROSE also, and was tormented and talked about by mean girls terribly because of jealousy. A lot of guys even started rumors. My child never retaliated, but was very angry a lot of times. so its not always kids that are more financially stable, because that was not the case with us. I do feel for MAX....he maybe angry, or uncontrolled..but he is not doing anything anymore than some others. He just got caught..We have to PRAY for all of our youth. God will not leave them, but yes you have to pay the price for wrong doings. Let's lift all of our youth up in prayer..They are our future!! God Bless anyone commenting or reading these comments.
Posted by: DD on Jul 16, 2008 at 01:00 AM
Alot of you obviously want to jump on the bandwagon talking about how bad Max is. Yeah he's no angel, yeah he's got 8 charges pending. All but the most recent arrest at stratford were from one incident. I can tell you that were anyone to throw a beer bottle at your brand new car, and then throw a beer in your brand new car, you would confront them too. The other charges happened before he signed and I can promise you Holtz was aware of them, and probably gave Max some kind of warning. That being said, Max was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. I'm not defending what he did, but it wasn't as if he ran up to some kid and beat the hell out of him, he was provoked, and the kid simply messed with the wrong person that night.
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Jul 16, 2008 at 12:22 AM
Cactus you and I see eye to eye on this situation. But not even the man with the "S" on his chest could save an entire family and friends in denial. Prison is full of old men that were once young boy whom couldn't be told anything. Unfortunately some people DO learn their lesson the hard way. Prime example of what happens when you have more money than you have brains. I did find one comment very immature. One blogger asked, what would you do if someone threw something at your new car?. I have been teaching 15 years, and I have never had a new car. I'm to busy saving up for my kid's college, paying bills, and on my spare taking my kids to the movies on weekends, or having slumber parties, boy scouts, football practice. Anything to keep my kids from falling through the cracks. If you believe the bible, he may have gotten by, but he won't get away. Grace you are right, he needs prayer, God will forgive him but he still will has to pay for the sin as we all do.
Posted by: by Grace we are saved. on Jul 15, 2008 at 09:23 PM
I think we should all pray about the situation for this family. We love our children, no matter what they do and we need to support them. Max may need more support now than ever, and he may need some help with anger, or whatever is bothering him. But God did create him, and hopefully years from now a Great Testimony will come from all of this...I know he is on my prayer list now. Max ..stand strong and believe in the grace of God. He will stand in the Gap for you.Take the punishment, and believe in better things, you will get through this. HE will never leave you...( a mother)
Posted by: Cactus on Jul 15, 2008 at 08:47 PM
This young man is crying out for help, yet at the same time he needs to understand that he will be accountable for all of his deeds. There are no free rides.
Posted by: ???????? on Jul 15, 2008 at 04:56 PM
I have been following this story since it came out. Appears that alot of people feel the same as I do. LOCK HIM UP before he hurts someone. SPOILED BRATT !!!!!!
Posted by: A MOM on Jul 15, 2008 at 03:23 PM
Well Dawn Boyd-Cribari....You must not have read the article where it shows ALL of his previous CRIMES.... This is a bad, bad, SPOILED ROTTEN kids that needs to learn a lesson.
Posted by: Barry Grimes on Jul 15, 2008 at 01:57 PM
u dont have to b n a gang to b thug u can be rich and b a thug u dummys
Posted by: max on Jul 15, 2008 at 12:55 PM
to Dawn-Boyd Cribari:there's been enough times to have changed this person's behavior. Ubfortunately,you have not done your homework.
Posted by: just to add on Jul 15, 2008 at 11:07 AM
everyone makes mistakes, that doe not mean they aren't wonderful people. make sure your hands are clean before you go pointing fingers. i don't think this is anyone who has written on the things decision, its the courts. and would you not do something if someone was to throw a beer bottle at your BRAN NEW car? put yourself in his shoes for once. at the same time, max... you do got it good, just remember that part!
Posted by: Esther Godley on Jul 15, 2008 at 10:57 AM
With a background like his, he ought ot be kicked OFF the team.....don't need guys as him to be 'TEAM" players.....what if he goes off on the field??? Can him NOW!!!!

POST EDITED
Posted by: Dawn Boyd-Cribari on Jul 15, 2008 at 10:23 AM
Shame on you for not doing your homework on the Max Joyner story, before you distorted this teens reputation. Aren't there educational materials you would be willing to print or air for our community, instead instilling rumors from an incident which happened last week involving teens and may I add, in which your staff wasn't present to witness; Let our judicial system find him guilty or non guilty before you throw him under the bus, as you have done. No citizen deserves treatment as this in our city let alone our country. This goes for the Daily Reflector, as well as, all news casts which felt they needed a boost in ratings. It sickens me and its a sad day when citizens do not reach out to help our youth by joining along with all the talk and you obviously know no more than what the media placed before you to read and hear!
Posted by: KWCorona on Jul 14, 2008 at 06:06 PM
People in the area know that the Stratford area across from the baseball field is a hot spot for crime and drugs. Just going there is indictment enough. People that don't want trouble stay away from those kinds of places.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 14, 2008 at 04:22 PM
Did the football player who got a DWI get kicked off team?
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Jul 14, 2008 at 04:07 PM
Those of you who see there is obviously a problem, stop wasting your time. It's evident its falling on deft ears. You can't help someone until they admit there is a problem. The sad thing is, its not the son. He's crying out.
Posted by: lawrence on Jul 14, 2008 at 01:43 PM
Look at it this way he will probably get a pat on the back,and a son you need not do that again.Move to another college or state and still be able to play football.After all his name is connected to ECU.Unlike the young lady who was accuse of setting the fire and can't get into college any where in N.C. let along leave the state.I guess it's not the crime but who your family is?
Posted by: Mike on Jul 14, 2008 at 10:44 AM
Kids make mistakes. It's a fact of life. Kids don't beat up Policeman and ALE officers. He must be punished but not blamed, he's just the product not the cause. Nothing is going to fix this short of a bootcamp. Welcome to 2008.

POST EDITED
Posted by: Mark on Jul 14, 2008 at 10:23 AM
Reserve judgment for court. If guilty, ECU does not need Mr. Max representing the school. If not guilty, Mr. Max deserves the same breaks everyone else gets after making a mistake. Time will tell. In a county where the law enforcements' activities are questionable, the citizens certainly deserve their day in court.
Posted by: LD on Jul 13, 2008 at 08:45 PM
If you are arrested somewhere or another you did wrong..Innocent until proven guilty I can agree with but you don't just get locked up "Just Because"!!When you continue to get into trouble and your family continues to bail you out there comes a time to stop and face up,there is a problem somewhere and yes I have 2 children 21 and 18 so I have been there and done that!!
Posted by: To Rocky Russell on Jul 13, 2008 at 05:44 PM
I read that you said his problems are no one but his families? I tend to disagree, should he have injured himself or his parents, yes...but assault on a government official--that becomes all of our problems. When one has that little regard for the law or officials who are attempting to keep us safe, that is a societal problem. I doubt you'd be so proud if your child had been the one assaulting a police officer or other official. As for those who believe these posts are slander or mean towards Max, sometimes we reap what we sow.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 13, 2008 at 05:13 PM
It's a shame these young people with the world at their feet can't use their brains. Hope he learns.
Posted by: Officer on Jul 13, 2008 at 04:22 PM
Thanks for the support, Teresa. We work hard to lock up this son of a council member just like we would lock up anyone else and get villified by your ignorant rant. Just keep enabling criminals, Teresa. Good job.
Posted by: YA! Don't Say on Jul 13, 2008 at 12:40 PM
What a surprise that it was ever reported with a city council member being his father,now we can sit back and wait till the charges get dropped.Buy I guess if he had been black the police chief would be running interference(little football term for you)
Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 13, 2008 at 11:17 AM
Way to go Teresa. Blame the cops for all the problems in the world. I'm sure that is what happened. An officer definately provoked this young man. Give me a break! I suppose we should blame the cops everytime someone is thrown in jail. I'm sure they are out to arrest innocent people. Yup, that is what they spend their time doing! Get a life. Thanks Greenville PD for all that you do!
Posted by: J on Jul 13, 2008 at 09:26 AM
Sounds like a prime candidate for the NFL!
Posted by: teresa on Jul 13, 2008 at 09:05 AM
instead of judging this young man for the things he is accussed of, maybe someone should step up and try to help set him on the right path. in our society if you are arrested people automatically assume you are guilty. i believe our justice system is all screwed up. we have cops who think just because they have on the uniform they can treat people anyway they want. for all we know one of the cops could have provoked an assault, but since they all stick together they would never admit it. so i think we should not be so quick to judge, we were not there and did not see what happened. everyone automatically believes the cops, not me. i know cops that are just as bad as any criminal in jail. they do things everyday that are illegal, the only difference is they do it behind their badge.
Posted by: simple on Jul 13, 2008 at 02:40 AM
Is anyone planning to testify under oath about the alleged beer throwing incident that supposedly provoked Mr. Joyner? I am planning to attend the trial unless there is a plea bargaining agreement.
Posted by: Cactus on Jul 12, 2008 at 11:33 PM
Local Citizen Jul 12 8:50. You are not a parent of a teenager or you are a friend of the family. Most are trying to figure out why this young man is not getting the help he needs so badly. Most of the post are not slander, we are just trying to figure out why he keeps getting in trouble and his family keeps bailing him out. If thats slander then so be it.
Posted by: Cactus on Jul 12, 2008 at 11:03 PM
Obama 08, I don't always agree with you but this time I do. This young man will wake up one day to find that the "Big House" has very small rooms.
Posted by: ECU on Jul 12, 2008 at 10:46 PM
Serves this kid right. Daddy won't be able to buy him out of this one. This kid doesn't need to step foot on ECU. Seem's like he thinks the world revolves around him. Sad he had to find that out the hard way. Best of luck where ever your path takes you next!
Posted by: Chris on Jul 12, 2008 at 10:29 PM
Just wait. Daddy and an HPA(high priced attorney) will get him out of everything. He MIGHT have to do like 24 hours of community service. He will be on the 09-10 pirate roster, just look at Rob Kass. There are alot of powerful Pirates that make things happen for the football team.
Posted by: Twinkle on Jul 12, 2008 at 10:22 PM
Please. This is not slanderous. It's still a free country, right? I commend WITN for their coverage of this incident - unlike other stations who were too scared to report it. Maybe it will start a little dialogue among some parents and their children and that there ALWAYS consequences to what you say and do!
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Jul 12, 2008 at 09:06 PM
Trey, I'm telling you what more than 50% of the other bloggers are saying. It won't be long before Joyner graduates to felonies. Sometimes when you loves your children you have to let them lie in the bed they made. His parents think they are helping their son but they are enabling him. They should have let him spend some time in juvenile detention because when he messes up big and he will, he won't be prepared for that wake up call in prison. You may not like what I say, but I've read post of people who said they know the family and the boy is trouble. It's called tough love. The word no won't kill him, but the word yes just might. If you don't understand that, then obviously you aren't a father of a teenager. This might have already messed up his career at ECU, that's just the beginning. He's screaming for help and only a few of us on the blog can hear him...how sad.
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Jul 12, 2008 at 08:52 PM
This will be my 3rd time trying to post this..TO:Posted by: Barry Grimes Location: WIndsor on Jul 12, 2008 at 09:48 AM.....LOL, You call me a moron, and say I bring up the dumbest arguments, by the way its spelled (ARGUMENTS), yet you keep reading them. So what does that make you? I'll tell you, a moron who keeps reading my post! Plus the reference word DUDE, like your a teenage surfer in California. I'm actually a woman. And I guess your post was suppose to insult me, well you missed the mark like you did with your spelling. Its OK 'dude', but if your next comment is a weak as the first one I won't respond back because you won't be worthy!
Posted by: Local Citizen on Jul 12, 2008 at 08:50 PM
ENOUGH IS ENOUGH... WITN DON'T YOU HAVE ANYTHING ELSE TO POST... THIS IS ENOUGH SLANDER ABOUT THIS KID.... YOUR STATION IS WORTHLESS AND OBVIOUSLY GETS OFF ON THIS CONTINOUS SLANDER... ITS TIME TO PULL THIS FROM THE SYSTEM... DON'T YOU THINK?????
Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 12, 2008 at 04:58 PM
I am in fact aware of the charges against Max Joyner. I wouldn't think to be so stupid to post information without knowing the severity of the charges. However, maybe my first post wasn't clear in the point I was intending to make. I feel unfortunate for Max Joyner, as I hope everyone would. I would really hope no one would wish ill will on anyone, but maybe I'm wrong. I respect the fact that you do not believe him to be a welcome ECU student. As an ECU alum, I share the same sentiment, but maybe the point here is being missed. Does everyone glorifying in this young man's poor actions and subsequent consequences have that much time on their hands? I am not making excuses for him, because like I said before, his punishment is only a product of his own actions. My real issue is the lack of compassion and delight in glorifying in someone else's problems. Don't you have enough of your own problems to be worrying about?
Posted by: Justin on Jul 12, 2008 at 04:06 PM
"A check of the North Carolina Court System calendar shows a total of eight misdemeanor charges against Joyner. The latest is the assault inflicting serious injury from Wednesday. The others include assault,, assault on a government official, intoxicated and disruptive, consuming alcohol underage, resisting a public officer, another assault on a government official, and another resisting a public officer." - WITN Thats 5 assaults, 3 of them on Police or ALE and 2 on civilians. That is not slander... this is absolute fact, and not welcome as a representative of East Carolina University.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 12, 2008 at 01:28 PM
This is an extremely sad situation. It is not a situation meant to purposefully humliate an individual. Granted, he is a troubled individual and what he is going through is a product of his mistakes and decisions, but that does not give anyone the right to pass this extreme judgment. It is my personal opinion, that some of the people on this blog should find other things to do with their time, instead of slandering an 18 year old boy's name, whom many of you don't know. And for you concerned parents, it would be to everyone's benefit that this situation is taken as an expample and not as an open forum to knowingly put down a priviledged child. Ask yourselves now, would this feel as good if it was a no name family. It is easy to not feel sympathy for a person who has been granted alot of gifts in life, however it still doesn't make the judgments right.
Posted by: ed on Jul 12, 2008 at 01:25 PM
Max, Success is not a destination, it is a journey. It seems that the some of the first steps you made have have not been the best choices for you or your situations. You are young and have your life ahead of you. Learn from your mistakes. Life is full of choices and priorities--take time to think and go forward chosing wisely. Good luck to you and your family. Life is much more important than football anyday.
Posted by: tanya on Jul 12, 2008 at 01:20 PM
Some of you that are writing are completely missing the point.This is a story of a young man who unfortunately has had too many freebies in life. It is time for payback! Unfortunately I suspect he will be bailed out again. How much longer I don'e know but hopefully in the future we won't read about this person being found dead somewhere or serving time for a worse crime. It is truly sad.
Posted by: Concerned Father on Jul 12, 2008 at 11:18 AM
I have known this young troubled man for years....and thats what he is troubled...his parents have given him everything..he is a thug..and not a very good football player...glad to see he got the boot...if only PCC had a program, maybe his Dad could buy him a full ride there too...
Posted by: Barry Grimes on Jul 12, 2008 at 10:48 AM
Obama 08 4 Prez! you must be a complete moron . You bring up some of the dumbest arguements sometimes. Really dude, you only say things because your identity is hidden.
Posted by: Trey on Jul 12, 2008 at 09:45 AM
no, you havent gotten your facts straight yet. Michael Vick was convicted of multiple FELONIES, this kid has multiple MISDEMEANORS pending. the 2 are not comparable. knowing the facts and understanding what they mean are two different things. no nerve was hit either. just making a comment just like you were TRYING to do
Posted by: Damon on Jul 12, 2008 at 09:37 AM
White people can be thugs too
Posted by: WHY on Jul 12, 2008 at 08:13 AM
I bet daddy pay this off and he go to another state and play. I probably dont need a scholarship to play...just the reputation. It takes a smart person to make a dumb move! Go luck in life you are going to need it.
Posted by: BIG J on Jul 12, 2008 at 07:36 AM
THE GUY SOUNDS LIKE A BIG THUG NOWHERE FOR HIM ON ECU FOOTBALL TEAM
Posted by: Keith on Jul 12, 2008 at 04:17 AM
According to his past charges, he doesn't need to play football here at ECU. He will cause problems for the himself and give the football program here a bad name.
Posted by: circle on Jul 12, 2008 at 12:37 AM
The kid is only eighteen, and his side of the story has not been told, don't rush to judge so soon. Witn if this family is so rich and like the old saying goes(money goes in a circle). because everybody has a circle. GOOD LUCK SELLING LOCAL ADVERTISEMENTS!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Jul 11, 2008 at 11:14 PM
WITN why do you edit my comments? You left out the entire beginning of my comment to Trey when he was the one who brought up Michael Vick, but when I said that name you edited it, why? You also left out how its my right to post here to because its a public blog, and you censored that. What was wrong with it. i did'nt break any rules. Sometime I think you have a different set for me.

Editor's Note: I can't answer most of your questions because I am not the one who edited your earlier comment. However I can say that we take the editing of this site very seriously. If we posted all of the comments we received without any editing, the quality of the dialogue on this site would drop dramatically. We edit many, many personal attacks, racial attacks, foul language outbursts that would have made George Carlin blush, death wishes for presidential candidates and more. Do we sometimes screw-up and edit out comments that deserve to be posted? Unfortunately we do....and that's a function of the number of folks we have editing. CM


Posted by: Mike on Jul 11, 2008 at 10:43 PM
In terms of a double standard, Rob Kass was a first time offender. In terms of JONATHON Williams, also a first timer and he broke team rules and that was handled in house. Having 8 charges against you is a little different than a first timer and a team rule breaker. I think Holtz just used this opportunity to get rid of a player who was given a courtesy scholarship based on his family pedigree. His record indicates he his not the type of guy Skip Holtz seeks, especially since he lacks the talent to overcome his character issues (hint: NFL types).
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Jul 11, 2008 at 10:36 PM
Are you so naive you think dog and chicken fighting isn't going on in your own state? I have lived in a community where dogs fights were a regular Saturday attraction. Its amazing how when you start to hit a nerve people always say get your facts straight. Lets see according to the story above Joyner is facing assault charges, and a total of 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 misdemeanor chargers. Did I get those facts right? I'll end this post just like i ended my other. No need to answer..its a rhetorical question.
Posted by: Concerned Minority on Jul 11, 2008 at 07:45 PM
Everyone knows if this was one of us minorities we would have it much worse than this rich kid. if he were black he would have his butt even more on the line and the bond would have been more than just $1000. just because this kid is white and his father is a councelman doesnt mean he deserves to get off lightly. as usual his dad will bail him out of this pickle. it is amazing what money will buy when dealing with certain things. a black man would have been in jail longer and would have harsher punishments all together. our government needs to tighten up and not his father bail Max III out another time. like one person said, the acorn doesnt fall far from the tree.
Posted by: Trey on Jul 11, 2008 at 07:27 PM
michael vick didnt just fight dogs and chickens. he was deeply involved in an "organized" crime ring that fights dogs and chickens. i dont think this kid is in any kind of deliberate, organized crime. really ought to get the facts straight before you subject us to your opinion
Posted by: tom on Jul 11, 2008 at 07:20 PM
$1000.00 bond? my friends son did something way, way less than this guy and the bond was $30,000.00 (he is white also...imagine the comments if I didnt clarify that). i have been seeing it for some time, the bond system in Pitt county is very inconsistant.
Posted by: Officer on Jul 11, 2008 at 07:08 PM
Just don't understand. I see where you're going with your repeated "Why wasn't he tasered?" questions. He wasn't tasered because when he was taken into custody the other night he didn't fight, he surrendered without incident. A majority of the charges listed in the story are from other incidents. I won't go into what happended with them because they are unrelated and not all the charges from Greenville PD officers. Not all officers have tasers at Greenville PD. Not all officers use their tasers at Greenville PD if they feel they can handle a hands-on situation without them. Certainly a person turning around and putting their hands behind their backs dosn't warrant them being tasered. We have restrictive policies about taser use here so you won't see any unwarranted usages. Sorry if that upsets you and you don't have another thing to look down on us about. God does have the last say in in-custody deaths involving police. It's called exited delirium. LOOK IT UP.
Posted by: PEGGY on Jul 11, 2008 at 06:42 PM
At lunch, there was a lot more comments.. 70 and some were cut out to 66 then back to 70 after more remarks were added. WITN knows this is a hot topic.. and they are trying to keep it from being the TOP topic, by cutting out comments. Shame on you.. thinking you will not get sponsor ship from family.. or is family paying to cut them out??? FUNNY.. in small towns $$ talks. sad but true.. can't take it with you when you die!
Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 11, 2008 at 06:36 PM
@bandit: This young man has had MANY chances to improve his behavior, and COUNTLESS individuals have attempted to help him through his 'rough' spots. and at the person who said Max is "good" because he received a scholarship, I would not only advise you to review your fifth grade english, but to give some thought to your statement: just because somebody has talent bashing into other people on a football field, it doesn't mean they are even remotely pleasant to be around. I've known this kid: It's not as though he needs the scholarship anyway: his family is plenty rich to send him to college without financial aid from ECU. Give the money to somebody who deserves it more.

Edited Slightly

Posted by: Obama Sucks on Jul 11, 2008 at 06:35 PM
From sources I have, it appears that a these charges come from only a couple of incidents. One being a VERBAL altercation with officers and the other being this current situation which turns out to be BS. It is amazing how people jump to conclude in this day and age. Is Max an angel? No, and neither are any of you people. Is he a cocky rich kid? Probably. Does he need a wake-up call and a nice welcome to reality? Probably. Has he been CONVICTED of any of these CHARGES? Nope. This has really gotten out of control and I really feel for his family. Anybody can place charges on anybody else. Let this whole thing play out before you start calling people felons, and for goodness sakes, Grow up people!
Posted by: Obama 08 4 Prez! on Jul 11, 2008 at 05:45 PM
You get time for fighting dogs and chickens, but a slap on the wrist if you assault a government official. Its one of two things....either its who you know, or dogs and chickens are worth more than officers of the law. Backwards Backwards Backwards! I wonder which one it is this time? No need to answer..its a rhetorical question.
Posted by: Not Surprised on Jul 11, 2008 at 05:32 PM
Let's just say as an individual who has had contact with this young man approximately 180 days each year for the past four years, I am not surprised at all about this incident. He felt he was above the rules at Rose High and his father's financial influence kept him on that team and in school when many others would not have been given repeated chances. Wasn't he kicked out of a game this past year for his on the field aggression? I believe this was towards his own teammates and coaches, not even the opponent. From personal experience, I can assure you that he has absolutely no respect for authority. Now that he is an adult, perhaps the system can get him some help. As an ECU alum, let me say how glad I am that he won't be wearing the purple and gold this fall!!
Posted by: double standard on Jul 11, 2008 at 05:27 PM
Rob Kass - one game, drunk driving... Jason Williams - nothing handed out yet. Max suspended forever.
Posted by: 79 bandit on Jul 11, 2008 at 05:02 PM
Quite a few of you need to improve your written English. I hate to listen to your verbal English. I would bet it is a lot worse. I have a question for ALL of you that know this young man. Does he have a drinking problem? If so was his first arrest alcohol related? If my questions are positively answered then this young player MUST be helped. By the same token I am NOT saying give him a wrist slap and let everything slide. I hope he has a decent lawyer who should encourage him to get treatment ASAP. Thank you
Posted by: community on Jul 11, 2008 at 04:24 PM
Yes, I do know him and have know the family a very long time. The acorn doesn't fall far from the tree. If Max has been in this much trouble already it is time for the family to have tough love and get him help. NOT out of it AGAIN. Max is young but old enough to know better. They are way to late to teach him responsibility and respect. He should have been made to do that at a very young age. NOW it is not CUTE and against the law. Mistakes do happen. Consequences should happen. Max, remember where you have been raised and make a good change in your life. Football players are role models in our community. This is why it is news. Your image has a lot to be desired. If he had won a big game it would be news.At least it would have been positive.BUT that news would be OK!? News is news good or bad. I don't think people are judging especially if they know him and the reputation he has. To Witness,if you were there,you need to get new friends.You are known by the company u keep
Posted by: wow on Jul 11, 2008 at 04:20 PM
i have some commits and all i have to say is, this guy had a full ride in college and now it might be on the rops. you know this guy is 18 or 19 he knows right from wrong, he should not even put him self in the postion to get the charge. as soon as he signed the papers to play for ecu he was a roll player. im not judging the guy i am tell u have it is in college. plus he had 7 other charges holts needs to tel this one go.
Posted by: Concerned on Jul 11, 2008 at 04:09 PM
WITN News stands to be corrected, "Comments posted are opinions from the public on our news stories." I would suggest that WITN News is more concerned with the number of hits on their website than they are about this young man. How many hits will it take to drop this issue? What's your quota?
Posted by: THE TRUTH on Jul 11, 2008 at 03:35 PM
They threw a beer bottle at his nice car. He was getting out to see who it was so they could pay for it. Then someones girlfriend threw beer in his car. What wouuld you do? and don't (crap) yourself.

Slight edit

Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 11, 2008 at 03:29 PM
GET OVER YOURSELFS. the dude makes mistakes. SO DO YOU!! And i know i have they just have never been caught. i have been to just an ecu game i think the only ones not drunk are the players. I don't know Max VERY well but if he got a full scolarship to play that means hes GOOD. Not because his mom or dad it's because he got his self there. GO CHECK ON YOUR OWN KIDS, because i know there making mistakes. I believe in god all the way. What yall call right only God says the last word. If he is meant on the team he will be on the team if not then oh well, god has better plans for his life. Unlike sitting here getting in everyone elses buisness on the internet. Why do people say bad that dont know? i actually know him. Do you?
Posted by: Daughter on Jul 11, 2008 at 03:21 PM
God forbid anyone make a mistake, believe it or not max is a GREAT kid. sometimes he is put in bad places at the wrong times & yes he needs to learn to walk away. Look at when his dad was growing up at his younnger ages like max now. "we learn from the past" and eventually max jr grew up & is in the city council. Max lll has been doing the same. If YOUR kid did this i very highly doubt they would be on witn because there dad/mom (like in maxs situation) is in city council or something, to be noticed. Please put him back on the team so he doesnt have enough time to be put in the bad places that he was that 1 night NO ONES PERFECT (forgive those who have done wrong) Have you noticed that everyone who knows him is writing good comments, and vise versa. Go get to know him first then say crap about him. i DARE YOU. Oh and by the way for all you smart mouths Rocky Russell does no business with Max Jr. He cares for Max lll as much as his own childeren. ps: find out the whole story first.


Posted by: Concerned on Jul 11, 2008 at 03:15 PM
What is it that WITN News hopes to accomplish with this avenue they have provided for the general public to crucify this young man and now his family? The other local media outlets in the area have been very professional in their report of the facts. It appears to me that WITN could benefit by doing the same, especially as they are trying to establish themselves as worthy media competitors in the Greenville area. We need to remember that this situation involves an 18 year old young man who has his life in front of him. Also,it is important that you as adults realize that you DO NOT have all of the facts involved with this incident. Please consider this before you cast judgement on this young man.

EDITOR'S NOTE: WITN's coverage of this story has been based on facts provided to us by the police, the court system and ECU. Comments posted are opinions from the public on our news stories.
Posted by: Just don't understand on Jul 11, 2008 at 02:47 PM
Why wasn't this man tasered if he assulted a government official. It seems as if others get tasered and die in custody. GOD has the last say!!!!!!!
Posted by: Lisa Jackson on Jul 11, 2008 at 01:49 PM
Those without SIN cast the first STONE!! Be careful on how you judge others;
Posted by: Denise Russell on Jul 11, 2008 at 01:46 PM
Each day of our lives we are on a journey, faced with choices right and wrong. I wish at 18 years of age I knew then what I know now; because a lot of the choices I made may have been different. But most of all I have come to realize that every breath that I take is a gift; Not because I am worthy or deserve it, but because the Gracious God of the universe chooses to have Grace and Mercy on EACH of US! And I pray that we too can show that same Grace and Mercy to others. (Deserving or Not)
Posted by: mom on Jul 11, 2008 at 12:48 PM
To Witness...EIGHT times? Maybe if people didn't keep bailing him out and saying it's not his fault..maybe if he went to some anger management classes..MAYBE then he'd suit up w/ the Pirates in the Fall. Stop being an enabler.
Posted by: kathy on Jul 11, 2008 at 12:40 PM
Kids only do whtat they have seen in the past. I wonder where he learned his behavior from?

Comment Edited.

Posted by: Jennie on Jul 11, 2008 at 12:24 PM
There you go!!! Another example of kids going wrong. Everytime something like this happens , it makes news.

Comment Edited.

Posted by: Linda on Jul 11, 2008 at 12:17 PM
Hopefully Max will learn from this. Everyone makes bad choices at some point in their lives- without the publicity that Max is receiving just because he is from a very prominent family. We are always so ready to judge someone, especially those we feel are more privileged. We also need to wait and get the whole story before rushing to judgement. I hope Max will get a second chance just as I would want it for my child.
Posted by: NCSU on Jul 11, 2008 at 12:15 PM
"Skip is a softy, hence, Rob Kass getting a one game slap on the wrist." Kass is actually a real talent.

Comment Edited.

Posted by: PeeDee on Jul 11, 2008 at 12:14 PM
There is no way this guy will play for ECU.... assault on an officer.... that's a Miami type charge
Posted by: Cary on Jul 11, 2008 at 12:06 PM
Posted by: Matts Location: Greenville on Jul 11, 2008 at 08:51 AM FYI registration begins July 26 at Pitt CC. Get in line Max. Get in line with students who are working hard and making the most of an opportunity. No stadium, no frat houses...just a chance. Come sit next to people, smart people, who know what opportunity is all about. Go out and find a job go to class and get it together. THIS IS A SMART KID... HOPE MINE TURNS OUT AS GOOD AS YOU. YOU HAVE OBVIOUSLY NOT HAD A SILVER SPOON IN YOUR MOUTH.. AND APPRECIATE HARD WORK AND WHAT IT BRINGS! YOU WILL DO GREAT THINGS ONE DAY, WITH AN ATTITUDE LIKE THIS!
Posted by: B on Jul 11, 2008 at 11:25 AM
Why was't he tasered if he assaulted an officer? Why did he get out of the car if someone was threatening him?
Posted by: pirate fan on Jul 11, 2008 at 10:57 AM
whoever is reveiving these comments i have submitted positive comments it seems youre only picking the negative ones. Go WITN youre a real class act

Editor's Note: I reviewed all the unapproved comments and there is nothing there using your name or IP address. You may want to resubmit the comments to make sure we received it. We edit comments based on "Hey, Read The Rules", not based on whether they are positive or negative.

Posted by: pirate alum on Jul 11, 2008 at 10:50 AM
I cant believe people are so quick to judge a person from a bad photo and charges that have not been convictions! There is always two sides to every story and obviously the news media never looks for the better side. i am disappointed that the pirate nation has taken the media's side so quickly without the truth.
Posted by: Gayle Chandler on Jul 11, 2008 at 10:47 AM
Anyone that commits a crime should pay the punishment deemed fit for any other person committing the same crime. This is no exception. Max III should not be held responsible for the statements or opinions held by his father. As such, Max III should not get ANY special treatment because he is a City Council member. Rocky, would you be so quick to point out this flawed attack on any other player committing a crime if it did not involve a city council member in which you do business? Seems to me you are abusing the same system you're trashing.

Comment Edited.

Posted by: Veronia on Jul 11, 2008 at 10:31 AM
My name is Veronica Stanley. Good luck trying to find my kids on any police report once, much less 8 times.

Comment Edited

Posted by: Dave on Jul 11, 2008 at 10:27 AM
Come on now Ed, you know that Skip is a softy, hence, Rob Kass getting a one game slap on the wrist.
Posted by: just wondering! on Jul 11, 2008 at 10:06 AM
RESISTING A PUBLIC OFFICER!!!! So why wasn't he tasered??
Posted by: Olivia on Jul 11, 2008 at 10:05 AM
I think this is a shame, he had a bright future before him. He ruined it himself. He obviously didnt realize what an oppurtunity had been placed before him.
Posted by: Matts on Jul 11, 2008 at 09:51 AM
FYI registration begins July 26 at Pitt CC. Get in line Max. Get in line with students who are working hard and making the most of an opportunity. No stadium, no frat houses...just a chance. Come sit next to people, smart people, who know what opportunity is all about. Go out and find a job go to class and get it together.
Posted by: Witness on Jul 11, 2008 at 09:50 AM
Ok. No one knows the other side of this story. He didn't start this fight. Kids came up to him talking bad and getting in HIS face. But of course, they didn't show that in the story because its all about if someone got hurt or not. Yes, he made the wrong decision of getting out of his car and taking action but what kid with pride is just gonna sit there and do nothing. YOU tell me.
Posted by: Rocky on Jul 11, 2008 at 09:19 AM
I did not know there were so many perfect parents w/ perfect kids in the Witn viewing area. All the comments below casting their opinion on something they absolutely know nothing about is amazing. Max has some issues obviously but it is no ones business but his family. If this news channel did a 60 second clip on every person that committed a crime or alleged crime in Greenville, there would be nothing but news on Channel 7. If some of the "Pirate Nation" is dissappointed that they'll have one less football player to cheer for in their drunken stupor, I think the rest of us will survive. If Max gets kicked off the football team, it may be the best thing that happens to him. Maybe he'll actually get an education instead of having to entertain the football fans of ECU that have posted comments to this site. P.S. If you are going to trash someone else's kid, have the guts to give us your name. That way, when your child makes a mistake, the favor can be returned Rocky Russel
Posted by: WONDERING on Jul 11, 2008 at 09:12 AM
WITN: Why do yo allow people to slander people and not have to post their names and addresses?
Posted by: Mr. Mackey on Jul 11, 2008 at 09:07 AM
Give him a break? Just a kid? No. He's 18 and he's assaulting government officials? And his daddy is in the government? Sounds like little Max thinks he's above the law.

Comment Edited.

Posted by: RonPaul'08 on Jul 11, 2008 at 09:05 AM
He should be kicked off the team. We have been getting a bad name with DUI's and stupidy on the football team. It gives a bad name to Eastern NC as a whole.
Posted by: realistic on Jul 11, 2008 at 09:02 AM
1,2,3,4,5,6,7,and 8..Hmmmmm??Not just a kid making a mistake. Assaulting an official. ECU needs to give that scholly to someone whom will appreciate the opportunity for an education.

Comment Edited.

Posted by: Airborne Ranger on Jul 11, 2008 at 08:55 AM
It looks like most of the charges were from one incident. Law enforcement will generally do this to help get a conviction on one. Most good football players have an aggressive tendancy, he obviously does and needs to learn how to control himself better. There is no excuse for underage drinking and he should have to face the music for his actions. He is over 18 and therefore and adult. It's high time he acted like one. Parents stay out of the fray and let him grow up whether your name is Joyner or Smith let due process be handled accordingly. DON'T BAIL HIM OUT OF THIS, IT WILL DO HIM GOOD!!!!
Posted by: need info to base opinion on Jul 11, 2008 at 08:54 AM
The video included... says Billy Weaver will tell you about the charges.. and what Skip Holz has to say.. then it goes BLANK... END OF VIDEO__-- did his parents pay to have the info removed??? REPORT The ENTIRE news!!

EDITOR'S NOTE: Sorry to bust your conspiracy theory, but no one pays us to remove a story. If they tried, that would be even a bigger story. The people that clip our video only posted the "news" report on the arrest. We're posting the "sports" version shortly. Please check back.
Posted by: KT on Jul 11, 2008 at 08:44 AM
This is truly unfortunate. His father and grandfather have been true assets to ECU and the Greenville Community. My thoughts are with Max Sr. and Jr. I know they have taught Max III a lot better than this, and I hope he can turn his life around and continue the Joyner families committment to ECU and Greenville.
Posted by: ECU Alumni on Jul 11, 2008 at 08:30 AM
Are these the kind of kids that ECU football gives scholarships to? What about the ones that stay out of trouble, get good grades, and perform great on the field at the same time? The latter are the ones that are looked over.
Posted by: Tim on Jul 11, 2008 at 07:56 AM
Most parents will do what they can to help their child out of trouble, maybe its time they look for help for him. ECU will probably revoke his scholarship and I wouldn,t blame them for that.

Comment Edited.

Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 11, 2008 at 07:47 AM
Lets just say, Max is no innocent individual who deserves your pity. Maybe he wil "Learn from his mistakes?" You could write an encyclopedia on his 'mistakes', and obviously, he hasn't learned a gosh darn thing so far.

Comment Edited.

Posted by: MW on Jul 11, 2008 at 07:40 AM
What a terrible decision this young man has made. I went to college on a baseball scholarship to GT and as soon as I signed my letter of intent, knew that my behavior had to be "above the line" or I would lose it. He had to have known the same. Now he will end up in community college on his parents dime, all because he could not act like a mature young man. He was given a free ride and tossed it aside for what-- beer and fighting?? come on- what a waste of talent..
Posted by: Me on Jul 11, 2008 at 06:57 AM
He thinks he is above the law, but it will be interesting to see what deal is worked out on this case.

Comment Edited.

Posted by: Devil Dog on Jul 11, 2008 at 06:22 AM
Hey Skip...Call Joe Paterno(Penn State).He will give you some sound advice.
Posted by: Ms on Jul 11, 2008 at 06:11 AM
I don't care who is parents are, he has broken the law numerous times, it's time for serious punishment.

Comment Edited.

Posted by: Ellen on Jul 11, 2008 at 05:42 AM
What is the other side of the story? There must have been others involved and what sparked the fight? Remember, he is just a young kid and these things happen. His life should not be ruined because of this.
Posted by: Parent on Jul 11, 2008 at 01:32 AM
All kids make mistakes. What some of you don't know is all these charges could have been from the same arrest. They throw all these charges at you and half of them don't stick or they drop them. If you read between the lines it looks like a drinking and driving situation that got out of hand when he was arrested. I am not defending him but we have all made mistakes. He still deserves an education. I am sure after all this exposure to the media he would never screw up again. I am sure his father is not letting him forget it either.
Posted by: Concerned on Jul 11, 2008 at 01:13 AM
There is a lesson here Max...turn your life around.
Posted by: Former Friend on Jul 10, 2008 at 11:05 PM
He needs to pay the price for his crime. TIME TO GROW UP, THIS IS THE REAL WORLD!!!

Comment Edited.

Posted by: ECU Student on Jul 10, 2008 at 11:04 PM
Its easy to walk away. Sounds like maybe he has a temper issue. I believe that with this being the 9th charge he should finally be punished. If this includes being kicked off the team, well he should of thought of that before hand.
Posted by: Lynne on Jul 10, 2008 at 10:46 PM
If he keeps getting bailed out by his family he will never learn to be accountable for his actions. He alone decides what choice/action to take in any situation..make him responsible
Posted by: Realisitic on Jul 10, 2008 at 10:39 PM
Sounds like the kid has had too many breaks. It is time for consequence. My god, 8 offenses, not time for a break. Pay the price!! I am a pirate grad and am absolutely embarrassed that we offered a scholarship to a student with this kind of history!!!!
Posted by: Coach on Jul 10, 2008 at 10:26 PM
Wake up Max III. You've got it good. Regardless of what happens next, do something worthwhile with yourself. You're too young to be screwing up like this. Be sincere, get real, and if you're good enough, you'll play again. There too many thugs in this world. There's still time for you to shed that reputation. Get busy like you never have before. Listen to your family.
Posted by: Mike on Jul 10, 2008 at 10:24 PM
They probably should try some new lessons... being that this is his 8th arrest.
Posted by: GoPirates on Jul 10, 2008 at 10:08 PM
C'mon people, regardless of who his parents are, he is just a freakin kid. Give him and his family a break. Everybody posting comments has made mistakes before, probably most even worse than this. He comes from a good family, I'm sure they'll do their best to teach him a lesson.
Posted by: Concerned on Jul 10, 2008 at 10:03 PM
I don't think this is his first time in trouble.

Comment Edited.

Posted by: Cactus on Jul 10, 2008 at 09:53 PM
People quit making excuses for so call great foot ball players? Great to me means you are a good citizen of the city, county, state and the US. You do not get involved in fights. He should not play for ECU at any time. Coach Holtz hold your players to a higher displine.
Posted by: ed on Jul 10, 2008 at 09:43 PM
What do you mean "with Skip Holtz as the coach, he won't get any suspension time"? Grow up. I bet he pays dearly for this Ms. Dave, as a matter of fact, i bet he never sets foot on the field, ever.
Posted by: DS on Jul 10, 2008 at 09:40 PM
Good point Flint, if I had been in the same situation nothing would have been said.
Posted by: ecu fan on Jul 10, 2008 at 09:24 PM
This is not the first time this has happened just the first time reported. Check the nc court calendar. Any other person would have been suspended before now but oh well the library is named after his family.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 10, 2008 at 09:13 PM
Why didn't he do the same with the player who was charge with the DUI at the beginning of last year? What happened to innocent until proven guilty? If he wants to be fair to ECU and the football program, then he should have removed the quarterback from the team last year. Why did he get a second chance?
Posted by: Flint on Jul 10, 2008 at 08:12 PM
you would not have covered this story if Max Joyner didn't play football
Posted by: Cary on Jul 10, 2008 at 07:54 PM
everybody makes mistakes as a kid.. and he still is a kid. Will he continue to do so?, or will he learn from his mistakes?? Sometimes parents have to let kids fall on their face to learn to get up themselves.. instead of pulling them up everytime. I pray for family and Max at this time. It is tough when your name is in the spotlight, for negative reasons. GOD BLESS
Posted by: stupid on Jul 10, 2008 at 07:29 PM
Max should not be allowed to play football for ECU at all. I agree with the two Alum who stated that he should be a role model. He should face the consequences of his actions instead of having this thrown out just because of who his father is.
Posted by: Dave on Jul 10, 2008 at 07:15 PM
With Skip Holtz as the coach at ECU, he won't get any suspension time.
Posted by: Anonymous on Jul 10, 2008 at 06:34 PM
Yes, he is the city council member's son.
Posted by: ECU Alumni Also on Jul 10, 2008 at 05:57 PM
Professionals of any field should be held to a higher standard of accountability. Receiving an honor such as playing for a college/university athletic team is quit the same. People look up to you. No Excuse. All players/professionals needs to recognize this and practice self control, bottom line!
Posted by: ? on Jul 10, 2008 at 05:44 PM
Is he related to the city council member?
Posted by: ECU alumni on Jul 10, 2008 at 04:50 PM
He should not be allowed back to play football for ECU and also be expelled from ECU. As an alumni, I am getting tired of seeing all the bad news about the athletes. I think after the DWI charge against the quarterback lastyear, ECU should enforce harsher rules and regulations for its athletes because they represent the University.
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