University of Florida linebacker stops sexual assault

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – News media report that a University of Florida football player helped stop the rape of an unconscious woman behind a trash bin outside a bar.

Cristian Garcia told First Coast News (http://fcnews.tv/29Qzrvb ) he was taking out the trash Thursday morning from the bar where he works security when he noticed a couple having sex. He first thought it was consensual, but then saw the woman was unconscious. Garcia said the man’s friends were watching the assault, and did nothing to help. The incident was videotaped.

Garcia said he and another witness walked up and stopped it.

Gainesville police later arrested 34-year-old Christopher Shaw and charged him with sexual battery of the 19-year-old victim.

Garcia, who will be a junior, played in one game at linebacker for the Gators last season.

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