Shanquez “Shaun” Rupert, a starting safety for the University of Memphis football team, has been charged with stealing a student’s Xbox, computer and two watches.
Rupert gave a written statement to Shelby County police last Thursday and admitted to his role in the May 25 robbery of a student, according to the Memphis Police Department. He has been arrested for charges of aggravated robbery and burglary and using a firearm during the dangerous commission of a felony.
In the affidavit, the victim said Rupert and another man pried their way in the victim’s residence before he could shut the door behind him. The statement also mentioned both suspects were armed with guns and demanded money, so they forced the victim to get in the bathtub and proceeded to steal his possessions.
The affidavit also states Rupert and the other man threatened to kill the victim if he called the police. The victim said when he was looking on Offer Up, an online marketplace, he realized Rupert was selling his watches and MacBook.
The victim gave a written statement at the Tillman precinct on Sept. 27 and told police he knew it was Rupert because he attends the same school and is a frequent visitor at the apartment complex, which is located on the 500 block of Brister Street.
News of Rupert’s arrest prompted the Memphis Athletic Department to dismiss the 22-year-old from the football team.
“Shaun Rupert has been dismissed from the University of Memphis football team for a violation of team rules,” according to the statement by the Memphis Athletic Department. “This matter will also be reviewed by the Office of Student Accountability, Outreach, and Support for violations of the U of M Student Code of Conduct. No additional comments will be made while the investigation is still ongoing.”
Rupert issued an apology for his actions via social media by stating that he is embarrassed and saddened about the effect it had on his loved ones.
“I know I have been an embarrassment and if you know me, you know this is not me or what I stand for,” Rupert tweeted. “If you knew the whole situation, you wouldn’t be looking at it the way you are. I’m heartbroken from this because I know how many people love me and are rooting for me and I am truly sorry.”
Rupert also said in the post that his “journey is not over,” and people should not let this one mistake define him as a person “because I sinned a little differently than you.”
Rupert is scheduled to attend court Oct. 2, according to The Commercial Appeal. Police reported that the second suspect has not been identified or brought into police custody.
