Arik Gilbert arrest: New details, statement released by Lincoln Police Department

More details are emerging about the arrest of Nebraska tight end Arik Gilbert. Gilbert was arrested early Tuesday morning in Lincoln, On3 previously reported.

Officers were called to SJ’s Liquor and Vape Shop in the 2600 block of O St. shortly before 2 a.m., according to a statement from the Lincoln Police Department. That’s where they arrested Gilbert without incident after they found him with more than $1,600 worth of vape products, Delta 8, cigars and lighters in a bag.

“On Tuesday, August 29, 2023, just before 2 a.m., Lincoln Police were dispatched to a report of a burglary at SJ’s Liquor and Vape Shop at 2645 O Street,” the statement from police read. “Upon arrival, officers observed a glass door that had been shatered with large cement chunks from the parking lot. Officers observed the suspect walking toward the exit carrying a bag. Officers arrested 21-year-old Arik Gilbert of Lincoln without incident. He was taken to the Lancaster County Jail for burglary.

“The total value of the stolen items in the bag was $1,672.07 and included a variety of vape products, Delta 8, cigars and lighters. Damages to the business were approximately $650.”

Arik Gilbert is still fighting for eligibility this season after transferring

Gilbert was one of Nebraska’s biggest transfer portal additions under new coach Matt Rhule, coming in as the No. 9-ranked tight end transfer this cycle, according to the On3 Transfer Portal Rankings. He started his career at LSU in 2021 before transferring to Georgia, but he decided to transfer again — meaning he needs a waiver.

Rhule has been vocal in his support for Gilbert to receive a waiver, but said the process is still ongoing as of last week.

“It’s still in progress. We’re hoping that before we head to Minnesota there will be some finality on it. There’s obviously been some twist and turns, with things going back and forth,” Rhule said Friday during a press conference. “Out of respect for Arik, I’m not going to broadcast all those different things. But there’s still just — looking for some finality, and everyone’s working hard to get it done.”

As a freshman at LSU, Gilbert had 35 receptions for 368 yards and two touchdowns before making his way to Georgia. He only appeared in three games in Athens, though, totaling two receptions for 16 yards and a touchdown during the 2021 season.

Gilbert arrived on the college football scene as a highly rated recruit. He played high school football at Marietta (GA), where he was a five-star prospect. He was the No. 5 overall recruit in the 2020 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.