Former Auburn Basketball Player Accepted into Program that Dismisses Federal Charges

by WAKA Action 8 News

A federal prosecutor says former Auburn basketball player Varez Ward has been accepted into a pre-trial diversion program that could dismiss his point-shaving charges.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Clark Morris says the charges against Ward will be dismissed if he completes the program without any problems.

Ward’s attorney, Everett Wess, says the program is a wonderful opportunity for Ward to put the case behind him. He can take college courses, work, and needs to stay out of trouble for a year.

The point guard from Montgomery was arrested in June on bribery and conspiracy charges. He was accused of trying to fix a January 2012 game against Arkansas.

He pleaded not guilty.

Ward was suspended before a February 2012 game against Arkansas and did not play for Auburn again.