Morrison arrested on misdemeanor battery charge
Expected to start at middle linebacker for the Florida Gators in 2013, sophomore Antonio Morrison was arrested on charges of first-degree misdemeanor simple battery after allegedly striking a bouncer early Sunday morning.
Attempting to gain entry to Kava Lounge at 1007 W. University Ave., Morrison inquired with the establishment's bouncer about the price of entry but was not pleased with the amount he was told.
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After being denied a discount or free admission, Morrison became furious and yelled, "Do you know who I am, I am a UF football player, I am Antonio!" only to once again be told he would have to pay full price, according to the Gainesville Police report.
Morrison allegedly responded by punching the bouncer/victim in the head before leaving. He was positively identified on the scene and arrested shortly after.
After an officer read Morrison his Miranda rights, he admitted to being at the scene of the incident. He called the altercation a "scuffle" and claimed that it was not a big deal. Morrison also admitted to being intoxicated at the time.
The SEC All-Freshman team member appeared in 13 games for Florida in 2012, registering three starts. He finished with 34 tackles (2.0 for loss), a sack and forced fumble, which occurred during UF's rivalry game against Florida State when Morrison appeared to knock out quarterback E.J. Manuel.
Morrison was listed as the starting middle linebacker by Gators head coach Will Muschamp on the team's post-spring practice depth chart.