NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP/CLARKSVILLENOW) – Opening statements began Monday in the trial of a third former Vanderbilt football player accused in the 2013 dorm room rape of an unconscious female student.
Banks has been charged with five counts of aggravated rape and two counts of aggravated sexual battery. The 23-year-old has pleaded not guilty.
A defense attorney says Banks was pressured and bullied into participating.
In opening statements Monday, attorney Katie Hagan said trial jurors must determine if Brandon Banks was acting under duress.
Assistant District Attorney Jan Norman said Monday that a video shows Banks assaulted the student with a water bottle. She said Banks’ cellphone contained 23 of 41 photos of the assault.
Two of the four players charged have been convicted and sentenced to prison following jury trials. Prosecutors said the victim will testify again. She has testified in multiple trials and sentencings.
Banks is charged with five counts of aggravated rape and two counts of aggravated sexual battery. The 23-year-old has pleaded not guilty.
Copyright 2017 The Associated Press.