EAST LANSING -- A Michigan State University football player is among 10 men charged in the theft of 104 Detroit Public Schools lap top computers valued at $158,000.
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy announced the charges Tuesday against 19-year-old Dion Sims and the other defendants. The Spartans list Sims as a sophomore tight end.
The computers were stolen in December 2009 to January 2010 from five schools. Some have been tracked to Arizona, California, Florida, Minnesota, Ohio, Tennessee and Wisconsin, as well as Canada and the United Arab Emirates.
Sims is charged with receiving and concealing stolen property.
Authorities say three suspects are members of the "Helly Helly Bois (boys)" gang.
Statement from MSU Athletic Director Mark hollis:
“Since mid-February, we have been aware that Dion Sims and members of his extended family have been dealing with some legal issues. Dion informed the coaching staff of the police investigation and has kept them apprised of the progress of the investigation.
“Dion did not participate in the first three regular-season games, and as of today, he has been suspended from football team-related activities due to these issues. During his indefinite suspension, Dion will continue to have access to all of the available resources in the Clara Bell Smith Student-Athlete Academic Center. We will allow the legal process to play out before we make any final decision regarding his future status with the team.”
