Central Michigan Reinstates Running Back Thomas Rawls Following Guity Plea for Theft Charge

Central Michigan reinstated Running Back Thomas Rawls after he pleaded guilty this morning on misdemeanor charges of theft in a building last April 8, 2014.  Rawls had gained 276 yards rushing this season until the university suspended Rawls prior to the Chippewas' game against Syracuse University.

Police arrested Rawls on April 8, 2014 following the theft of a 62-year-old woman's purse from the Soaring Eagle Casino in Michigan. Facing a felony charge, Rawls agreed to plead guilty this morning in Isabella County District Court to a lesser misdemeanor charge of theft in a building. Rawls agreed to testify against two other suspects involved in the theft.

Central Michigan's Athletic Director Dave Heeke said in a statement that Rawls has been reinstated to the team. "He had fulfilled disciplinary measures that we feel are appropriate at this time and we decided to move forward," Heeke said. Head football coach Dan Enos was not available for comment to confirm whether or not Rawls will play Saturday, September 27, 2014 at the University of Toledo.

Both Enos and Rawls will be available on Wednesday to speak to the media after practice.

Rawls, a senior at Central Michigan and a native of Flint, Michigan, played for the University of Michigan before transferring to Central Michigan. Rawls has appeared in 20 games, making one start at running back and has contributed on special teams. The court scheduled Rawls sentencing for October 21, 2014.