Former Virginia Football Player Charged with Rape, Abduction

Jahmal Edrine, a wide receiver, was arrested and charged with felonies following a months-long investigation.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Former University of Virginia wide receiver Jahmal Edrine was arrested and charged with one count of rape and one count of abduction following a months-long investigation by the Albemarle County Police Department. The 22-year-old player, who transferred to Virginia ahead of the 2025 season, is no longer enrolled at the university.

Why it matters

This case raises serious concerns about campus safety and the handling of sexual assault allegations, especially involving student-athletes. It also highlights the need for thorough investigations and accountability for those accused of such crimes.

The details

The investigation began on August 25 after a victim reported being sexually assaulted the previous day. The case was later presented to a grand jury, which returned indictments on February 2. Police took Edrine into custody on February 6, and he is currently being held without bond at the Albemarle-Charlottesville Regional Jail.

  • The investigation began on August 25, 2025 after a victim reported being sexually assaulted.
  • The case was presented to a grand jury, which returned indictments on February 2, 2026.
  • Edrine was arrested on February 6, 2026.

The players

Jahmal Edrine

A 22-year-old former wide receiver for the University of Virginia football team, who was arrested and charged with one count of rape and one count of abduction.

Albemarle County Police Department

The law enforcement agency that conducted the months-long investigation into the allegations against Edrine.

University of Virginia

The school where Edrine was enrolled and played football, and which has confirmed he is no longer a student or on the team.

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What they’re saying

“The university is aware of the matter and will cooperate fully with law enforcement, but is prohibited by federal student privacy laws from commenting further.”

— Brian Coy, Chief Communications Officer and University Spokesperson (Wahoos247)

What’s next

The judge will decide on whether to grant Edrine bail at a hearing scheduled for next Tuesday.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for thorough investigations and accountability when it comes to allegations of sexual assault, especially those involving student-athletes. It also underscores the importance of campus safety and the university's responsibility to protect all students.