Indiana dismisses freshman RB facing child molestation charges

WINCHESTER, Ind. -- Freshman Indiana running back Kiante Enis was kicked off the team Thursday, less than 24 hours after being charged with two counts of felony child molestation for allegedly having an improper relationship with a child under 13.

The athletic department issued a one-sentence statement, announcing the dismissal would take effect immediately.

The Randolph County Sheriff's Department said the charges were filed Wednesday. Each is punishable by up to 16 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

In a release, the sheriff's department said it was investigating a report that Enis and a child under the age of 13 had a relationship. The department said Enis admitted to at least two consensual sexual encounters. Enis was booked into county jail and was being held Thursday afternoon on a $20,000 bond. Jail records did not list an attorney for him.

Doug Fritz, the Randolph County chief deputy sheriff, told The (Muncie) Star Press the alleged victim was a girl. He said she and Enis had been "friends within the community."

Enis rushed for 7,014 and 98 touchdowns at Winchester Community High School and originally committed to playing at Michigan before changing his mind and staying in state.

He finished fifth in the IndyStar Mr. Football Award voting and was selected as the Mr. Football position winner as the state's best running back. The (Portland) Commercial Review reported Enis is the nephew of former Penn State and Chicago Bears running back Curtis Enis.

The news about Enis came one day after Indiana backup kicker Aaron Del Grosso was arrested and charged with criminal trespassing and public intoxication following an argument with an ex-girlfriend over ownership of a dog.