March 28, 2024

Tennessee defensive tackle Alexis Johnson arrested, suspended indefinitely

Tennessee has been in the news a lot lately, and it hasn’t been for good reasons. The Vols had a football player arrested Wednesday.

Neyland Stadium, University of Tennessee - Knoxville. //Photo by Ryan McGill

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According to multiple reports, Tennessee early football enrollee Alexis Johnson was arrested and put on a 12-hour hold Wednesday evening on three charges, including aggravated assault and false imprisonment.

The incident occurred on campus in Volunteer Hall early Valentine’s Day morning. The victim stated to police that the incident began as “play-fighting” but quickly escalated when Johnson choked her until she “almost passed out,” according to arrest records.

Johnson also allegedly blocked the exit to his bedroom while trying to “touch and kiss” her. When the victim claimed she did not want to engage in sexual contact, he allegedly threatened her with violence.

The victim acknowledged to the police that she had previous sexual relations with Johnson. According to the arrest records, Johnson and her even previously dated.

Johnson, a highly touted Junior College defensive tackle transfer, was one of four early enrollees who were admitted to UT in January.

Head coach Butch Jones has not commented on the incident but a UT spokesperson released this statement last night:

“We are aware of the report concerning Alexis Johnson. He has been suspended from all football activities. We will have no further comment at this time.”

The Tennessee Journalist will continue to report on this situation as more information becomes available.

Featured image by Ryan McGill

Edited by Cody McClure

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Dominic is in his second year writing on staff at TNJN. Along with being a staff writer, he also covers the UT men's basketball beat. He is currently a senior at the University of Tennessee majoring in Journalism and Electronic Media. Follow him @dominiclobianco on Twitter!