Ex-Texas basketball HC Chris Beard makes first comment since arrest

For the first time since he was originally arrested on felony domestic assault charges on Dec. 12, former Texas basketball head coach Chris Beard made some comments publicly. On Feb. 16, multiple reports confirmed the comments that Beard released publicly (including Horns247).

The comments by Beard this week reads as follows.

"“I am pleased with the announcement that the charges against me have been dismissed. While I always had faith and confidence in the truth and this outcome, it has been extremely challenging to wait patiently and not publicly respond.I’m sorry and deeply remorseful to my family, friends, all my players and staff both most recent and past, and everyone at my alma mater The University of Texas, including the fans and supporters who were affected by this situation.I would also like to thank all those who have reached out to express encouragement and love during this difficult time.”"

These comments from Beard come just one day after the domestic violence charges against him were dropped by the Travis County district attorney’s office. Jose Garza (Travis County DA) and his office were able to release the following statement announcing the charges against Beard were being dropped on Feb. 15.

Former Texas basketball head coach Chris Beard releases his first statement since his arrest

“After a careful and thorough review of the evidence, recent public statements, and considering Ms. Trew’s wishes, our office has determined that the felony offense cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt”.

Beard was originally arrested on domestic violence charges in Travis County on Dec. 12 after his fiancee, Randi Trew, alleged that he strangled her. A statement released later that month from Trew mentioned that she never wanted the charges put against him since she said he was acting in self-defense.

After Beard was arrested on Dec. 12, Texas placed him on unpaid leave. On Jan. 5, Texas officially fired Beard after a little more than one full season on the job.

Since Beard was fired last month, Rodney Terry took over as the interim head coach for the Longhorns for the remainder of the 2022-23 season. Since taking over as the acting/interim head coach for the Longhorns in mid-December, Terry has led this squad to a record of 13-5.

Beard registered a record of 29-13 (.690 winning percentage) during his two years at Texas. On the season, as a whole, Texas sits at a mark of 20-6 (9-4 Big 12) following a road loss against the Texas Tech Red Raiders on Feb. 13.