Kurt Busch Not Charged in Domestic Violence Investigation: Details, Comments

Suspended NASCAR Sprint Cup star Kurt Busch will not face criminal charges related to alleged domestic violence, it was reported Thursday, though the 36-year-old's racing future remains uncertain.

Alan Cavanna of Fox Sports first reported the news:

Jeff Gluck of USA Today tweeted the official statement from the Delaware Department of Justice, which cites a lack of evidence:

Steven B. Wilson of Speedway Digest provided Busch's full statement:

"

I am grateful that the prosecutors in Delaware listened, carefully considered the evidence, and after a thorough investigation decided to not file criminal charges against me.  I wish to thank my family, friends, fans, and race team who stood by me throughout this nightmare with their unwavering support.  Thanks also goes to my legal team for making sure that the truth got out and was fully provided to the prosecutors.  As I have said from the beginning, I did not commit domestic abuse.  I look forward to being back in racing as soon as possible and moving on with my life.

"

Busch's ex-girlfriend Patricia Driscoll also shared a statement, via Wilson:

"

While I respect the process, I am disappointed that full justice was not served here. My family and I take a measure of solace in the Order of Protection From Abuse granted by commissioner Jones, who ruled my account of the facts was the most credible.

At great risk to my personal and professional reputation, I have spoken candidly, at length, and on the record, to a variety of outlets in an effort to correct the distortions and sensationalism that have unfortunately marked the coverage of this painful time in my family's life. I would urge anyone covering this case to stick to the well-established facts. Giving further air to baseless and discredited accusations about me does a disservice to the public and reduces a serious matter for law enforcement into tabloid gossip.

In all future developments in this case, I will continue to stand up for my integrity and for justice. But for now, I am focused on my family, my friends, and my important and gratifying work with the Armed Forces Foundation.

"

NASCAR also issued a statement, via Dustin Long of NASCAR Talk:

"

“NASCAR is aware of the Delaware Department of Justice announcement today regarding driver Kurt Busch. As we disclosed Monday, he has accepted the terms and conditions of a reinstatement program and is actively participating in the program. Kurt Busch’s eligibility for reinstatement will continue to be governed by that program and the NASCAR Rule Book, though the elimination of the possibility of criminal charges certainly removes a significant impediment to his reinstatement."

"

According to Bob Pockrass of ESPN, it is alleged that Busch assaulted Driscoll in his motor home at Dover International Speedway last year by smashing her head against the wall.

Despite a lack of charges, Busch was suspended indefinitely by NASCAR, which caused him to miss the Daytona 500 as well as last week's race at Atlanta.

Per Pockrass, NASCAR released a statement regarding its decision to suspend Busch prior to the conclusion of the investigation against him.

"

Given the serious nature of the findings and conclusions made by the Commissioner of the Family Court of the State of Delaware, NASCAR has indefinitely suspended driver Kurt Busch, effective immediately. He will not be allowed to race nor participate in any NASCAR activities until further notice. ... Kurt Busch and his Stewart-Haas Racing team are fully aware of our position and why this decision was made. We will continue to respect the process and timetable of the authorities involved.

"

Although it is unclear when Busch will be reinstated, the fact that he will not be criminally charged likely bolsters the possibility of a resolution in the near future.

This entire situation doesn't look good for Busch or NASCAR, and questions will now be asked about how long the suspension can continue without criminal charges being pressed.

Follow @MikeChiari on Twitter