Florida State’s Karlos Williams investigated for alleged domestic assault

It appeared Florida State might make it through its bye weekend without another program-tarnishing incident.

Wrong.

Reports surfaced Monday that senior running back Karlos Williams was being investigated for alleged domestic abuse against his pregnant girlfriend.

“The athletics department is aware of an investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department involving football student-athlete Karlos Williams,” the school said in a statement. “Until we receive more information regarding the alleged incident his status with the team will be under review.”

The Tallahassee Police Department confirmed it received the case late Saturday night and assigned it to its criminal investigation division.

The police department has been criticized for its handling of a 2012 case which Florida State quarterback Jameis Winston was accused of alleged sexual assault.

A state attorney determined last November there was not enough evidence to bring a case. Winston, however, faces a university hearing to determined whether he violated the school’s student code of conduct.

Florida State, the defending national champions and currently ranked No. 2, face a big Thursday night game at Louisville.

Williams is the Seminoles’ leading rusher with 378 yards and seven touchdowns. He practiced Monday with the team.

Florida State Coach Jimbo Fisher, after the team’s win against Notre Dame on Oct. 18, was vehement in defense of his program.

“This team understands how to win,” Fisher said. “It has character. It has culture. And it’s about developing this group into the best football team it can be. I’ll tell you what, I wouldn’t trade it for any team in America.”

Fisher was asked at a news conference Friday about a rumor circulating that Williams had been suspended for a rule violation said to be unrelated to the alleged domestic abuse.

“There’s another false report, and that’s amazing how things happen,” Fisher told reporters. “Whoever has sources, whoever has rumors, needs to check who they are talking to -- because that is about as far from truth as there is.”