EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Defense attorneys for Deshawndre Washington — the former New Mexico State University basketball player charged with multiple felony sex crimes in connection with a hazing scandal at the school — say the accusers in this case were willing participants.
Attorneys Michael E. Cain and David Mestemaker, Washington’s defense attorneys, called a news conference on Monday, Jan. 17 to discuss the case.
“I do believe that, even in these days and time when people are sensitive and social media is everywhere, that the people will see that this is nothing more than a bunch of teenage boys playing around doing stupid stuff, no harm intended. Anybody that didn’t want to be a part of it, the evidence, I believe, will show wasn’t a part of it,” Mestemaker said.
Washington’s defense said that he is innocent in the case, labeling the alleged actions as “horseplay.”
“Have we forgotten about horseplay? Have we forgotten about what people do in locker rooms, in competitive sports teams? I submit to you that we have. And that’s how this case came about,” Mestemaker said.
According to court and police documents obtained by KTSM, Washington did not act alone. Two other players — Kim Aiken Jr. and Doctor Bradley — were also accused of sexual assault during the 2022-23 basketball season.
However, Aiken Jr. and Bradley recently took plea deals in the case and they are scheduled to testify against Washington during his jury trial.
Washington is facing 15 charges related to the case, including criminal sexual contact in the fourth degree and false imprisonment. The trial is set for April 14.
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