Former Ohio State football players Amir Riep and Jahsen Wint each pleaded not guilty to felony charges of rape and kidnapping during their arraignments at the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas on Friday afternoon.
The next court date for Riep and Wint, who are currently out of jail on bond, has not yet been set. Defense attorneys for both clients said they expect a judge to be assigned to the case and pre-trial and trial dates to be set on Monday.
Riep and Wint were both dismissed from the Ohio State football team on Feb. 12, one day after they were initially charged and arrested by Columbus Police. Both former Buckeyes were indicted on those charges by a grand jury on Feb. 21, and face up to a maximum of 33 years in prison if they are convicted on all counts. Attorneys for both Riep and Wint told reporters after Friday's arraignment that they believe evidence presented during the trial will demonstrate their clients are innocent.
Ohio State coach Ryan Day said earlier this week that Riep and Wint will not be allowed to return to the team under any circumstances.