UCLA’s Bennett Arrested for Forgery

UCLA defensive back Tommy Bennett was suspended from the football team by the athletic department Friday after his arrest by campus police on forgery allegations and an unrelated traffic offense.

A search warrant was served on Bennett, a sophomore, at his Saxon Suites residence on campus Thursday morning, and sufficient evidence was obtained to arrest him on forgery charges, according to Lt. Jim Kuehn of the UCLA police.

“At this point we’re not releasing the nature of the evidence because the investigation is still ongoing,” said Kuehn, who added that the case is expected to be turned over to the Santa Monica district attorney next week.

Bennett was booked at the West Hollywood sheriff’s station and released on his own recognizance. Arraignment is scheduled for March 24 in Santa Monica.

Kuehn would say only that “more than one document” has been found, that “it was for monetary gain” and that no one else was involved. He added that there is a possibility of more than one charge.

It could be as many as six, Kuehn said, adding, “but that is speculation.”

Bennett said he preferred to “lay low” until charges are sorted out.

“I really don’t want to comment on anything until I talk with my lawyer,” he said.

Bennett, from San Diego, is suspended until an investigation is completed.

Bennett started the Bruins’ first game, a 27-25 loss to California, and intercepted a pass, but he struggled with his assignments and was demoted.

He then played as an extra defensive back in passing situations until a 40-27 victory over Washington State, which he started at free safety when Travis Collier was injured.