Josh Shaw’s story under investigation


The story behind USC senior defensive back Josh Shaw’s recent ankle injury took a bizarre turn today, as the validity of his version of events came into question. Head coach Steve Sarkisian announced at practice this morning that the athletic department had received  calls questioning Shaw’s claims that he suffered two high ankle sprains in the act of saving his young nephew from drowning last Saturday night. Sarkisian was supportive of the newly named co-captain, but said USC would investigate further.

Ralf Cheung | Daily Trojan

Ralf Cheung | Daily Trojan

“Within the last few hours or so we have gotten a few calls contradicting what Josh said occurred Saturday night,” Sarkisian said. “We’re going to continue to vet it.”

The incident, which took place in Shaw’s home of Palmdale, California, came under further scrutiny when anonymous sources later claimed a police inquiry was underway. The Palmdale Sheriff’s Department quickly denied having any information on an investigation regarding Shaw, followed by a similar denial from the Los Angeles Police Department.

LAPD, which had planned a news conference this afternoon, was adamant that it had nothing to do with Shaw.

As a mob of reporters circled around him this morning, Sarkisian defended Shaw’s character and stood behind him.

“He’s a good person,” Sarkisian said. “He’s a good kid. He came to us with what had occurred Saturday night and I have no reason, no history to not believe Josh and his story.”