Here is how I would sum up Royce's series of current collegiate problems (from most significant to most unknown), from the perspective of someone without inside info:
1. Royce has been arrested and charged with misdemeanor theft/shoplifting and misdemeanor fifth degree assault. The charges themselves are very concerning, albeit legally inconclusive at this point. At the same time, the evidence is reported to be pretty strong. Under these circumstances and especially considering Royce's history, the suspension is warranted until the case is resolved. Moreover, further discipline might also be warranted, depending on whether the case results in any actual conviction(s). It is possible that the case will be resolved more favorably than expected or that there is some unknown fact that will come out to change the analysis. Stranger things have happened. But at least based on the reports so far, it seems that such a result is unlikely, and it would be a very reasonable expectation that Royce will have at least one misdemeanor conviction. If so, I would expect consequences and some requirements showing rehabilitation and a true commitment to the team. Royce needs to get his act together to stay on the team, especially given his history.
2. Royce is reported to have been kicked out of one or more dorms. The reason for these decision(s) is unknown, but it is concerning so early in his collegiate career. Moreover, it reinforces a concern that Royce has not dealt with his behavior problems.
3. Royce's designation as a suspect in the dorm laptop incident means little, especially without more information. Why is Royce a suspect? How many other suspects are there? Etc. I actually think it was irresponsible to report this issue, but I understand why it happened given Royce's history. Without more, the designation as a suspect is relatively meaningless. Perhaps Royce is not one of many suspects, but a prime suspect. Even initial prime suspects have been cleared, such as in the Atlanta Olympic bombing case and the anthrax cases. Again, I don't know, but I suspect that there is not much evidence against Royce at this time because he has not even been charged. Thus, at this point, there is not even sufficient evidence amounting to probable cause, let alone to conclude that he was somehow involved in this potential crime. To conclude that he did something wrong here (based on the publicly available info) would be jumping the gun. We need more info.
Without the dorm incident, Royce has done plenty to raise doubts about his potential advantages as a member of the Gophers. As a fan, I still hope he works through the issues and becomes a star Gopher. But I want that only if he truly is committed to cleaning up his act and to the team.
As a realist, I have significant doubts about Royce--I certainly would not bet on Royce's success at this point. And I also hope that someone is carefully considering damage control (as seems to be the case), considering when Royce's potential cons might outweigh his potential pros.
Based on what I know, Tubby and Maturi seem to be doing a good job with a difficult situation.
