Former Texas basketball coach Chris Beard releases first comments since case dismissal

Former Texas basketball coach Chris Beard has released his first comment since the revelation that his domestic violence charge was dropped.

The aforementioned dropped charge, which directly led to Beard’s removal as the leader of the Longhorns basketball program, was announced by district attorney Jose Garza announced Wednesday. Originally, Beard was arrested in December, and subsequently fired on Jan. 5.

“I am pleased with the announcement that the charges against me have been dismissed,” wrote Beard. “While I always had faith and confidence in the truth and this outcome, it has been extremely challenging to wait patiently and not publicly respond.

“I’m sorry and deeply remorseful to my family, friends, all my players and staff both most recent and past, and everyone at my alma mater The University of Texas, including the fans and supporters who were affected by this situation.

“I would also like to thank all those who have reached out to express encouragement and love during this difficult time.”

Continuing, the alleged incident took place in the early morning hours Dec. 12 when Beard was arrested for assault on a family/household member. His fiancee, Randi Trew, alleged he strangled her and Beard said he acted in self defense. He was suspended indefinitely by Texas shortly thereafter.

But later in the month, Trew released a statement saying Beard didn’t strangle her and added she didn’t think he “intentionally” tried to harm her. She also called for the charges against him to be dropped.

After Texas announced Beard’s firing his attorney released a statement regarding the decision, reiterating Beard was innocent.

“Chris Beard is crushed at the news he will not be [coaching] at the University of Texas,” Beard’s attorney wrote. “At the outset of Coach Beard’s suspension, The University promised they would conduct an independent investigation surrounding the allegations and make a decision regarding his employment only after they had done so. They proceeded to terminate Coach Beard without asking a single question of him or his fiance. Since the arrest, there have only been positive developments clearly demonstrating his innocence. 

“Additionally, it is my opinion shared by others that any potential charges against Coach Beard will be declined very soon. This is in addition to the statements made by his fiance that emphatically state that the original reports were inaccurate. I am concerned that the University of Texas has made a terrible decision against the interest of the University, based on Twitter feeds and editorials — and not the facts concerning a truly innocent man. The University has violated their agreement with the coach and we are devastated.”

Chris Beard’s fiancee called for the charges to be dropped in December

Moreover, Beard’s fiancee released a statement Dec. 23 explaining why the charges against him should be dropped and didn’t refute the claim he acted in self defense.

“Chris and I are deeply saddened that we have brought negative attention upon our family, friends, and the University of Texas, among others,” Trew wrote. “As Chris’ fiancé and biggest supporter, I apologize for the role I played in this unfortunate event. I realize that my frustration, when breaking his glasses, initiated a physical struggle between Chris and myself. Chris did not strangle me, and I told that to law enforcement that evening. Chris has stated that he was acting in self-defense, and I do not refute that.

“I do not believe Chris was trying to intentionally harm me in any way. It was never my intent to have him arrested or prosecuted. We appreciate everyone’s support and prayers during this difficult time.”

On3’s Nick Schultz contributed to this article.