Updated: 11/23/2009 8:00:41 PM
The Knox County District Attorney's office has dropped charges against Janzen Jackson and another defendant.
According to a press release from the DA's office, charges were dropped related to the incident in which 3 University of Tennessee players and a female UT student were charged with attempted aggravated armed robbery.
"We have said all along Janzen Jackson did not commit a crime in this matter," Don Bosch, Jackson's attorney said. "Our investigation determined that very quickly. This is the right decision for the state. We're somewhat distressed this took as long as it did, but we're very happy this occurred this morning."
Jackson, a defensive back, wide receiver Nu'keese Richardson, and defensive back Michael Edwards were all three charged in the November 12 incident.
Charges are still pending against Richardson and Edwards.
"We will continue to investigate the allegations of this case and work through the judicial system and make appropriate decisions as to how this matter should be handled for Mr. Edwards," David Eldridge, Edwards' attorney said.
Neither Richardson nor Edwards have entered pleas in the case. They're scheduled back in court January 20.
"I think Nu'Keese obviously regrets what happened. I think there is a lot more to story than is being shown, and we'll be able to show that a little later on, when it comes to court on the 20th," Jamie Poston, representing Nu'Keese Richardson, said.
Poston says a family friend bailed Richardon out of Knox County's detention facility. He retained Poston as his counsel just three days ago.
Poston would not comment if the gun police found was Richardon's.
Police say three men were approached by two men in the Pilot parking lot on Cumberland Avenue. One of the men had a gun, and both demanded "Give us everything you got."
Bosch says Jackson did not leave the vehicle that night at Pilot and had no idea there were plans to allegedly attempt robbery.
UT student Marie Montmarquet, 22, was also originally charged in the case with both attempted aggravated robbery and drug charges.
Marijuana was found in the vehicle; Montmarquet took responsibility for it and a marijuana grinder.
"It's unfortunate that she's gone through the process thus far. She's a senior at UT and a pre-law major," Greg Isaacs, Montmarquet's attorney said. "This is not a plea bargain, these charges were completely dismissed. She looks forward to graduating and getting on with her career."
Bosch says his client had no knowledge of the marijuana.
"For all the folks out there speculating that Mr. Jackson was up to no good, that's just ridiculous speculation. That's simply not true."
UT Head Football Coach Lane Kiffin has since released Edwards and Richardson from the team. Jackson remains on the team but has missed two late season games.
"That's decision for Coach Kiffin. I don't get in the middle of those decisions. That's between a player and his coach," Bosch said.
Universtiy of Tennessee Athletic Department spokeswoman Tiffany Carpenter said she expected no changes to Jackson's status Monday, but there could be news Tuesday.
The district attorney's office says the decision was made to drop charges after the investigation by the Knoxville Police Department, interviews with witnesses and the victims, and the review of more than 10 hours of video tape.
Montmarquet still faces marijuana and drug paraphernalia charges.
Neither Richardson nor Edwards has entered a plea on the charges against them. They're scheduled for a hearing in January.
Jackson is the only one of the three players still considered a member of the University of Tennessee's football program.
Stay tuned to 10 News and wbir.com as this story develops.
