Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, November 10) — Jose Rizal University’s (JRU) John Amores has yet to issue a public apology, but showing remorse after his recent punching spree could be the first step to avoid the filing of possible charges against him, a sports lawyer told CNN Philippines.
Atty. Mickey Ingles said Amores could face charges that could get him from 30 days to six months in prison.
“The first thing that has to happen is a show of remorse from John Amores. There hasn’t been any public apology so how can you back down when the person hasn’t really asked for forgiveness,” Ingles said.
The camp of College of St. Benilde (CSB) earlier said they are considering filing complaints against Amores for charging their bench at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City last Tuesday.
The lawyer said parents, players and CSB all have legal grounds to file charges against Amores as his rampage is considered an “intentional tort,” or a wrongful act done on purpose.
Charges could include civil cases for monetary damages, exemplary damages, and moral damages for the emotional suffering of the players.
Ingles added that the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and JRU’s sanction of indefinite suspension is “sufficient disciplinary action.”
The lawyer, however, hoped the league and the university can find more concrete actions for the player to do for him to return to the hardcourt.
“I think they’re still trying to temper the sanctions with a bit of mercy. Although, I would’ve wanted more concrete goal posts for Amores to do in order for him to get back on court,” Ingles said, citing the Brooklyn Nets’ suspension of star player Kyrie Irving.
After careful deliberation by league officials, the NCAA slapped Amores with an indefinite suspension a day after the brawl.
