Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston, who was suspended from the Seminoles’ baseball team after he was cited for shoplifting seafood at a grocery store, has released a statement on the matter.
“As reported in the news, last night I received an adult civil citation for petit theft from a local supermarket,” Winston said. “I went to the supermarket with the intent to purchase dinner but made a terrible mistake for which I’m taking full responsibility. In a moment of youthful ignorance, I walked out of the store without paying for one of my items.”
This isn’t the first time Winston has raised eyebrows with his off-field conduct, and he acknowledges that’s a problem.
“I realize that I am in the public spotlight and my conduct needs to be above reproach,” Winston said. “Over the last year I’ve learned that my accomplishments on the fields can be a wonderful thing for my school, teammates, friends, and family. At the same time, I must realize that my mistakes are magnified and can bring great embarrassment to all those who support me every day. I make no excuses for my actions and will learn and grow from this unfortunate situation. I hope and pray my friends and family will view me as the 20-year-old young man that I am, and support me through this unfortunate situation.”
Winston may be a “20-year-old young man,” but that’s old enough to know you can’t just walk out of a store without paying for the merchandise you take. Winston is a supremely talented quarterback, but his off-field act is wearing thin.