Buckeyes' Chattams to make restitution in theft charge

DAYTON, Ohio (AP) -- Former Ohio State receiver Angelo Chattams, facing felony charges in the theft of golf equipment, has been accepted into the Montgomery County prosecutor's pretrial diversion program.
Prosecutors said Friday they believe they have enough evidence to convict Chattams, a 20-year-old sophomore, but he can avoid a permanent record if he completes a program that includes restitution of at least $6,585, plus 40 hours of community service and probation.
Four other former Chaminade-Julienne High School athletes, all alleged to be involved in crimes last summer, are expected to be accepted into the diversion program for first-time, non-violent offenders, said Jim Knight, a spokesman for the prosecutor's office.
Chattams played on special units in the Buckeyes' season-opener against Texas Tech before the charges against him came to light. He hasn't dressed for a game since, although he has practiced with the team.
"It was just a stupid mistake and I'm paying for it right now," Chattams said. "I learned my lesson and I'll move on from here. I know what my responsibilities are. I have to be careful with everything I do."
Coach Jim Tressel said Chattams won't be on the team charter plane that leaves Dec. 26 for the Fiesta Bowl game with Miami, but he will be allowed to travel at the school's expense with a student tour that arrives later.