Felony charge dropped against NDSU star linebacker

Jun 14, 2013 - 3:30 PM Fargo, ND (Sports Network) - A felony charge was dropped Thursday against North Dakota State University linebacker Travis Beck following his arrest last weekend.

Beck, 21, from Munich, N.D., was arrested early Sunday for his participation in a street fight outside a downtown bar. He was accused of beating a man unconscious and later charged with felony aggravated assault, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison and $5,000 in fines.

Cass County State's Attorney Birch Burdick said that a police investigation, including review of street video, made it impossible to determine if Beck was the aggressor or acted in self-defense.

According to the Forum News Service, a misdemeanor charge of resisting arrest is still pending against Beck. He pled not guilty to that charge Monday.

Beck was named the most outstanding player in North Dakota State's 17-6 win over Sam Houston State in the 2011 FCS national championship game. Last season, he ranked second on the team in tackles as the Bison won a second straight national title.

On Monday, NDSU coach Craig Bohl announced Beck was suspended from the team pending the judicial process.

Beck was arrested for underage drinking last fall. He pled guilty and was fined $325 and sentenced to 40 hours of community service.

North Dakota State begins its 2013 season on Aug. 30 at Kansas State.