Indefinite suspension for ex-Ohio St. case lawyer

COLUMBUS (AP) — A divided Ohio Supreme Court has indefinitely suspended the law license of the attorney whose emails triggered an NCAA investigation that cost former Ohio State football coach Jim Tressel his job.

At issue was a new allegation that Columbus attorney Christopher Cicero altered a speeding ticket he received to reflect a lesser charge.

The court ruled 5-2 today for the suspension, which allows Cicero to apply for reinstatement after two years, overruling a disciplinary board’s recommendation of permanent disbarment.

Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor objected in a dissent, saying Cicero should lose his license forever. A message seeking comment was left with Cicero.

Emails Cicero sent to Tressel in April 2010, warning him that players were selling memorabilia or trading them for tattoos, launched the NCAA probe.