Von Pearson Will Not Face Criminal Charges After Rape Allegation

Tennessee Volunteers senior wide receiver Von Pearson won't face any charges after an investigation into an alleged rape found insufficient evidence to move forward with the case, the Knox County district attorney general's office announced Wednesday.  

On August 5, Patrick Brown of the Times Free Press reported Pearson was suspended by both the school and the football program following the incident. However, the school announced that he'd been reinstated on Friday.

Knox County district attorney general Charme Allen confirmed the decision to not press charges.

"After a thorough review of the investigation ... there is insufficient evidence to sustain criminal prosecution against Von Pearson. Mr. Pearson will not be criminally charged as a result of the accusation made against him," Allen said.

Matt Slovin and Anita Wadhwani of the Tennessean reported back in April the receiver was named as the only suspect in an alleged rape at an off-campus apartment. The police report listed six potential witnesses, including fellow football players Dimarya Mixon and Alton "Pig" Howard.

Pearson joined the Volunteers after a stint with Feather River College, a California junior college. He made 38 catches for nearly 400 yards and five touchdowns last season, his first in Knoxville. He remains listed on the team's official roster.

Tennessee returns each of its top-five receivers from last season. Pearson ranked second behind Howard in both receptions and yards while leading the team in receiving TDs. He'll likely fill a similar role during his senior year.