STARKVILLE — Mississippi State senior running back Anthony Dixon pled guilty last week driving under the influence.
The plea was entered by his attorney Jay Perry so Dixon could avoid Monday”s court date at Starkville Municipal Court.
It remains unclear what punishment MSU coach Dan Mullen has decided to impose on Dixon, who was arrested July 18 in Starkville.
Dixon, who was fined $500, was charged with driving under the influence, careless driving, and not having proof of insurance.
The citation for lack of insurance was dismissed after Dixon provided that information later. The citation for careless driving was retired to file.
In a statement released by MSU, Mullen said that the matter had reached its conclusion and Dixon was looking forward to moving forward.
He has been pleased with the way Dixon has handled himself, but hasn”t disclosed any further action taken.
“Anthony has done everything the team has asked of him, but he still has further responsibilities to his teammates,” Mullen said. “While the consequences for his actions from a legal standpoint have been met, he still has obligations to the Mississippi State football team that we will handle inside the football program.”
Mullen said following one of the two-a-day practice sessions last week that Dixon was serving several different punishments, but he didn”t disclose them.
As he did the day after his arrest, Dixon was apologetic for what he called “selfish actions” that caused him to be taken into custody.
Dixon realizes he has disappointed teammates and coaches, but appreciates their support and doesn”t plan to let them down again.
“With this in the past, I can”t forget the lessons I”ve learned,” Dixon said. “Now I have to start with a total focus on school and getting ready to play my senior season.”
Dixon rushed for 869 yards on 197 carries and seven touchdowns last season. He rushed for 1,066 yards on 287 carries and 14 touchdowns in 2007.
Although Dixon said he understands punishment is necessary, it hasn”t been announced if he”ll miss any games.
MSU team spokesman Joe Galbraith said Mullen doesn”t plan to comment further about the matter and that any discipline will be handled inside the football program.
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