COLFAX, Wash. --- Washington State University football player Robert Barber has been reinstated as a student.
Barber, who had been expelled by the WSU Student Conduct Board stemming from allegations he had assaulted someone at a party back in July. Pullman Police recommended charges against Barber and another student, TJ Fehoko, for the alleged assault, but the Whitman County Prosecutor has not made any announcement about deciding to pursue those charges.
Barber's attorney filed a petition asking a judge to stay his suspension earlier this month. A Whitman County judge ruled on the matter Wednesday morning. Barber is allowed to return to class at WSU, though he is not allowed to have contact with the person he allegedly assaulted.
“The judge wants to take a full look at this which will come probably in March or April," said Barber's attorney, Steve Graham after the hearing. "He needs to go through the records… and make a final decision then."
"[The judge] said Barber is likely to prevail in this so we need to do a stay in this, otherwise, irreparable harm will be done to him, because he won’t be able to graduate on time,” argued Graham Tuesday.
Barber is also not allowed to consume alcohol or drugs, including marijuana. He is also not allowed to attend alcohol-related functions, according to court documents.
Court order issuing a stay in Barber's suspension. pic.twitter.com/76X9oLSFoU
— Taylor Viydo (@KREMTaylor) November 16, 2016
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His lawyer said he believes Barber will return to the field this weekend.
"From my understanding, he kept in great shape," said Graham.
Barber practiced Tuesday with the team, and will likely play against the Colorado Buffaloes this weekend in Boulder.
Look who's practicing today! Robert Barber is in the house #gocougs pic.twitter.com/UtsCWizeRG
— COUGFANcom (@COUGFANcom) November 16, 2016