Fmr. University Of Maryland Basketball Player Appears In Court On Rape Charge
UPPER MARLBORO, Md. — Former University of Maryland basketball player Damonte Dodd appeared in court Thursday morning for a bond review. Dodd was indicted in May for second degree rape and related charges for a November 2017 incident in College Park, Md.
Dodd, 24, was taken into custody last week in Atlanta when he returned to the United States after traveling overseas.
The alleged crime took place a few months after Dodd graduated from the university. Prince George's County State's Attorney Office spokesperson John Erzen said the charges tie back to Halloween night.
"Mr. Dodd claims it was consensual. That's not what we believe at this time," Erzen said.
He said Dodd met the alleged victim while partying at a bar in College Park. After buying her drinks, he reportedly went with her back to her apartment.
"Intoxication, one way or another, it's certainly not an excuse," Erzen said. "It's certainly not a defense."
During Dodd's Thursday morning court appearance, a judge ordered that he be released on his own recognizance. He's also ordered to have no contact with the victim or witnesses, to surrender his passport and to stay out of College Park.
"He's been fully cooperative. He talked with a police detective. He gave his entire account. He maintains his innocence. He continues to do so," Defense attorney Thomas Mooney said. "What I'm aware of at this point, is that it is a he said, she said. I've heard from him. I believe him. I think justice will prevail."
Dodd is scheduled to appear in court for a hearing in September, and for trial in November.
Follow @WJZ on Twitter and like WJZ-TV | CBS Baltimore on Facebook