Florida State dismisses top football recruit after 150-mph car chase, felony arrest

Florida State has dismissed freshman cornerback Chuck Kennon from its football program following an alleged high-speed police chase in Tampa, Florida, over the weekend.

Kennon, an 18-year-old defensive back who was considered one of the Seminoles’ top recruits, was dismissed from the program Tuesday after the incident, according to reports.

The incident reportedly began early Sunday morning when an officer spotted Kennon’s Dodge Durango traveling 79 mph in a 50-mph zone in Tampa, according to UPI.

What followed was an alleged pursuit that reached dangerous speeds, with the SUV reportedly exceeding 150 mph. During the chase, the vehicle allegedly ran a red light and struck a curb before a flat tire brought it to a stop.

According to reports, an officer then observed Kennon fleeing from the vehicle and running into a nearby industrial plant.

Woman Reports Reckless Driving During Incident

While searching for Kennon, police reportedly located his cellphone inside the Dodge Durango.

Authorities also encountered a woman who said she had left Ybor City with Kennon. According to reports, the woman told police that she repeatedly asked him to let her out of the vehicle as his driving became increasingly reckless.

She reportedly asked to be released from the vehicle more than 10 times and sustained lacerations to her arm.

The woman was reportedly placed in handcuffs and detained during the incident. The circumstances surrounding her detention have not been fully detailed in the information available.

Kennon Turns Himself In, Faces Three Charges

Kennon turned himself in to authorities Monday and is facing three charges, according to court records reviewed by the New York Post.

The charges reportedly include:

• Aggravated fleeing to elude: A second-degree felony.
• False imprisonment: A third-degree felony.
• Resisting an officer without violence: A misdemeanor.

The allegations have not been adjudicated in court. Kennon is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

Florida State Moves On Without Freshman Cornerback

Florida State’s decision to dismiss Kennon marks a significant development for a program that had viewed the young defensive back as an important part of its recruiting class.

The Seminoles must now move forward without the freshman as the situation develops.

For Kennon, the legal process will continue as he faces the charges stemming from the alleged incident. Additional details regarding the case and any future court proceedings may emerge in the coming days.