Penn State Wrestler Braeden Davis Accepted into Pre-Trial Diversion Program
STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — June 27, 2025 — Just moments ago, Penn State sophomore wrestler Braeden Davis was approved to enter Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program, a move that could allow him to avoid a criminal conviction stemming from a March incident at a campus fraternity house.
Davis, 20, had faced multiple charges, including three misdemeanors—resisting arrest, trespassing, and fleeing from police—as well as summary offenses for underage drinking and public drunkenness. The charges were linked to a late-night disturbance at the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity, where Davis and another individual were allegedly asked to leave but refused. When police responded, they say Davis attempted to run, resisted being taken into custody, and removed an officer’s body-worn camera. His blood alcohol content was later measured at .225—nearly triple the legal limit for underage drinkers.
In a decision handed down minutes ago in Centre County Court, Davis was admitted into the ARD program—a state-run diversion option aimed at rehabilitating non-violent first-time offenders. To stay in the program and have the charges dismissed, Davis must meet several conditions, including completing seven days of community service, paying $160 in restitution, avoiding alcohol for six months, and undergoing regular drug and alcohol screenings.
Court records describe the ARD program as a way to promote rehabilitation while reducing the burden on the legal system. If Davis complies with all court-ordered conditions, his record will be cleared of the charges.
Penn State Athletics issued a brief response acknowledging the court’s decision, stating that the behavior reported “does not reflect the values of the program” and would be handled internally. Officials declined further comment due to the ongoing nature of the legal process.
Athletically, Davis remains one of Penn State’s most promising young wrestlers. After a strong freshman season in which he captured the Big Ten title at 125 pounds, Davis transitioned to the 133-pound weight class this year and earned All-American honors with a fifth-place finish at the NCAA Championships. He ended the season with a 17-7 record, despite battling injuries.
Wrestling head coach Cael Sanderson has not commented publicly on Davis’s legal issues, though he previously noted the young wrestler’s determination and work ethic. Davis’s future on the team remains intact for now, with sources close to the program indicating his status will likely depend on his adherence to the ARD requirements.
Today’s decision offers Davis a legal lifeline. If he meets all program conditions, he’ll avoid a criminal record—preserving both his personal and athletic future.
More updates are expected as the case progresses and Davis formally begins the rehabilitation program.
