Utah's Dominique Hatfield, facing assault charge, reinstated to team
Dominique Hatfield, a Utah cornerback who was suspended after being charged with robbery and theft, has been reinstated to the team, the Associated Press reports.
Utah coach Kyle Whittingham said at a press conference that he believed Hatfield had served enough punishment, and that he had spoken with athletic director Chris Hill about Hatfield's reinstatement.
In July, Hatfield was cut from the team after being charged with aggravated robbery and theft. Those charges were dropped, but he was again charged in August with misdemeanor assault following his involvement in a fight at a July 5 party. A man told police he was attacked by multiple people, including Hatfield, after asking Hatfield not to smoke marijuana at his house, the Associated Press reports.
The assault charge still stands, and his hearing is scheduled for Sept. 21. He has pled not guilty.
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Whittingham said Hatfield would play as soon as he was deemed ready. Last season, the junior started 10 games and logged 38 tackles with one interception.
Greg Skordas, Hatfield's attorney, said Hatfield was excited about rejoining the team.
“He was very, very happy,” Skordas said. “It’s been a long time coming.”
The Utes next play Utah State on Friday after beating Michigan, 24–17 last Thursday.
- Erin Flynn
