Aug. 6, 2004
SportsLine.com wire reports

OXFORD, Miss. -- Mississippi running back Jamal Pittman was suspended for at least six games and linebacker Ken Bournes was dismissed from the team Friday, two days after they pleaded guilty to misdemeanors in a gun possession case.

The Rebels also suspended fullback Rick Razzano for the season opener Sept. 4 against Memphis. Razzano was arrested for being involved in a fight in downtown Oxford in April.

Pittman had been accused of felony gun charge and resisting arrest following the July 18 incident in Memphis, Tenn. He was accused of pointing a gun at people in a car and toward a police officer.

The 21-year-old pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of reckless endangerment and will rejoin the team for practice Aug. 23. The rest of the team reports Sunday and begins practice Monday.

Bournes pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor count of unlawful possession of a weapon.

In a statement, Rebels coach David Cutcliffe said Bournes also faced unspecified academic issues.

"We have given this incident much thought and consideration," Cutcliffe said. "We are doing what we feel is fair to the program as well as the young men. We do not condone or tolerate this type of behavior in any way. In fact, we go to all extremes in trying to aid our young people to make sound decisions."

Cutcliffe said Pittman had no previous disciplinary issues and could play at home against Tennessee on Oct. 16.

"I want to apologize to my teammates, coaches, the university, and the Ole Miss family," Pittman said in a statement. "I am sorry for what happened and for any embarrassment this has caused. I am also grateful for getting another chance. I love Ole Miss and this is where I want to be."

Pittman, a sophomore, missed most of the last two seasons with knee injuries, but was expected to compete for playing time this year.

Bournes, a senior, was expected to start this season. He played 13 games in 2003 and had 35 tackles 3.5 sacks.



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