The UW-Milwaukee men's basketball program, already off to a somewhat disheartening start this season, took another downward turn early this morning when senior forward Torre Johnson was arrested on suspicion of battery and suspended from the team.
Police said that Johnson, 22, a former star at Milwaukee Juneau who began his collegiate career at Oklahoma State, was involved in an argument with a 23-year-old woman in the 2300 block of North Oakland Avenue. The woman, whom police believe is a friend of Johnson's girlfriend, required 10 stitches and was treated and released at a hospital.
Johnson was later found by police hiding in a closet in a home near 20th Street and Capitol Drive. He is in custody. The district attorney will review the case Monday.
Panthers coach Rob Jeter released a statement Saturday about the suspension: "We learned of the situation involving Torre Johnson this morning and I want to make it completely clear I find this kind of behavior totally unacceptable," Jeter said. "This touches a nerve with me and, based on the facts as I have them now, it is simply something I cannot tolerate. I understand there is a process to follow in gathering all available information and any additional facts, but I am taking the swiftest action I can at this time."
Johnson is UWM's leading scorer and rebounder , averaging 17.8 points and eight rebounds per game.
