Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, accused in two different states of sexual assault in the past nine months, awaits word on whether he will be charged in Georgia after the latest accusation by a 20-year-old college student. Even if he is not indicted, a league source said Sunday, the Steelers quarterback could be compelled to undergo a formal clinical evaluation and if he is charged in the March 5 incident, the Steelers and/or the NFL can dole out immediate discipline of Roethlisberger even if there is no conviction, the source confirmed. A reading of the NFL personal conduct policy shows further why the Steelers may be so concerned about their quarterback's situation: "It is not enough simply to avoid being found guilty of a crime. Instead, as an employee of the NFL or a member club, you are held to a higher standard and expected to conduct yourself in a way that is responsible, promotes the values upon which the League is based, and is lawful. Persons who fail to live up to this standard of conduct are guilty of conduct detrimental and subject to discipline, even where the conduct itself does not result in conviction of a crime. Discipline may be imposed in any of the following circumstances: Criminal offenses including, but not limited to, those involving: the use or threat of violence; domestic violence and other forms of partner abuse; theft and other property crimes; s*x offenses. Apart from any disciplinary action, persons arrested, charged or otherwise appearing to have engaged in conduct prohibited under this policy will be required to undergo a formal clinical evaluation. Based on the results of that evaluation, the person may be encouraged or required to participate in an education program, counseling or other treatment deemed appropriate by health professionals." Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
