The woman who told Austin Police that Chris Beard injured her during a violent altercation earlier this month is now saying that the University of Texas men’s basketball coach may have acted in self-defense and that he never strangled her.
Randi Trew, who lives with Beard and is engaged to marry him, said she doesn’t believe the coach was trying to harm her and that she didn’t want him to be arrested. Her statement, given to the American-Statesman and the Associated Press on Friday evening, was Trew’s first public comments on the matter since the Dec. 12 incident.
“Chris and I are deeply saddened that we have brought negative attention upon our family, friends, and the University of Texas, among others,” Trew said. “As Chris’ fiancé and biggest supporter, I apologize for the role I played in this unfortunate event. I realize that my frustration, when breaking his glasses, initiated a physical struggle between Chris and myself. Chris did not strangle me, and I told that to law enforcement that evening.
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“Chris has stated that he was acting in self-defense, and I do not refute that. I do not believe Chris was trying to intentionally harm me in any way. It was never my intent to have him arrested or prosecuted. We appreciate everyone’s support and prayers during this difficult time.”
The comments appear to weaken the criminal case against Beard, who was taken to jail and faces a…
