Running back Soso Jamabo says he’s putting police chase in the rear-view mirror

UCLA freshman running back Soso Jamabo has put his recent past behind him.

Jamabo, who played at Plano (Texas) West High, was involved in a seven-minute police chase in April, on the night of his prom. He was arrested and charged with evading arrest with a vehicle. He was also given written warnings for consumption of alcohol by a minor, possession of alcohol as a minor, speeding, driving without a license and disregarding a stop sign.

“It was immaturity,” Jamabo said. “I’m in college now, and I’m trying to have more maturity going through all these trials in [training] camp. I have matured a lot. I’m glad I got past it. I’m moving forward now and being a better person from it.”

Jamabo was never indicted in the matter. On Wednesday, a spokesman for the Kaufman County district attorney’s office refused to comment on whether the case had been resolved.

Asked about the current status of the case, Jamabo said, “Who knows? I don’t know what’s going on. As a person, I’m just glad it’s behind me and keep working on the football field.”

Jamabo said Coach Jim Mora told him to “be smart, be more focused. I’m on a platform now. I have to make smarter choices.”

Jamabo has shown flashes of his ability during training camp. At 6-foot-3, he is taller than most running backs and needs to lower his pads when he runs. But his abilities as a runner and receiver are evident.

Jamabo said he wants to remain at running back, but that if he is asked to move to receiver, he will make the adjustment.