URBANA – A backup quarterback at the University of Illinois will be given a chance at adult diversion in lieu of criminal charges after being arrested at a dance over the weekend.

Edward F. "Eddie" McGee, 20, of Savoy, was released on his own recognizance Sunday and is due to return to court Thursday, according to Champaign County State's Attorney Julia Rietz.

"We have reviewed the reports and will offer him the opportunity for adult diversion," Rietz said Tuesday.

Adult diversion means that the state's attorney will not file any criminal charges against a person who meets the conditions set by a panel of community volunteers, Rietz said.

The decision for adult diversion in McGee's case was based on a lack of any criminal history, his cooperation in the investigation, and the circumstances of the incident, including the fact that the victim was not injured, Rietz said.

McGee was arrested by University of Illinois police at around midnight Saturday, at the Campus Recreation Center East, 1102 W. Gregory Drive, U, where the African-American Homecoming dance was being held, according to UI police.

Lt. Roy Acree said there was a fight on the dance floor. McGee was somehow poked in the eye and reacted by pushing a 19-year-old female Eastern Illinois student, he said. The young woman pushed back and McGee was accused of grabbing her by the throat and throwing her down on the dance floor.

McGee, a sophomore from Washington, D.C., has been the backup to Juice
Williams since the start of the 2007 season. He has played in one game
this season, competing 1 of 2 passes for 10 yards against Eastern
Illinois. In 2007, McGee played 10 games, completing 29 of 55 passes for
444 yards and two touchdowns.