Roethlisberger won't face criminal charges

MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. - Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who won't face criminal charges after a 20-year-old college student accused him last month of sexually assaulting her inside a nightclub's bathroom, said yesterday he knows he'll have to work to regain the trust of teammates and fans.

Ocmulgee Circuit District Attorney Fred Bright said that after interviews and inconclusive medical exams, the student's accusations could not be proved beyond a reasonable doubt. Bright added that the accuser no longer wanted him to prosecute.

Roethlisberger, reading from a prepared statement, said: "The prosecutor's decision not to bring charges, I know without a doubt, is the right conclusion." He added, "I'm truly sorry for the disappointment and negative attention I brought to my family, my teammates, coaches, the Rooneys and the NFL.''

- AP