COLUMBUS Charge to be filed against Clarett

A conviction could mean jail time for the former Warren Harding standout.
COLUMBUS (AP) -- Prosecutors and Ohio State University police will file a misdemeanor falsification charge against suspended football star Maurice Clarett for an inflated theft reported he filed, a city attorney spokesman said.
The charge was to be filed this afternoon in Franklin County Municipal Court, which will issue a summons for Clarett to appear within 30 days, city attorney spokesman Scott Varner said.
The charge carries a maximum penalty of six months in jail and $1,000 fine.
Background
Clarett, one of Ohio State's top players during its run to the national championship last season, is suspended from the team while the NCAA and the university investigate his behavior off the field.
The NCAA and Ohio State began an investigation in July into Clarett's claim that more than $10,000 in clothing, CDs, cash and stereo equipment was stolen in April from a 2001 Chevrolet Monte Carlo that Clarett had borrowed from a local dealership. Clarett later said he exaggerated the value of the items stolen.
Andy Geiger, OSU athletics director, said Clarett was suspended because of allegations of accepting improper benefits and for misleading investigators.
Geiger and attorneys for Clarett did not immediately return a phone message seeking comment.