UPDATE: The Missouri State athletic department confirmed in a statement on Saturday night that Ruddick's suspension is stems from accusations that he beat and injured his neighbor's dog.
University officials have takent the following actions:
-Ruddick is suspended indefinitely for conduct detrimental to the team.
-The office of student conduct is coordinating an investigation and will turn findings over to Athletics for team discipline and then will begin university disciplinary action if appropriate. The investigation is a top priority for the University and the football team. It will be prompt, thorough and fair.
-Ruddick will not participate in football activities during the investigation.
Dave Steckel announced late Friday that Ruddick will begin serving the suspension immediately and will not return to team activities until the situation has been resolved.
Ruddick's neighbor told KSPR that Ruddick had beaten and injured her dog, an Australian Shepherd named Luca, while watching it some time before. She said he had gone so far as to shatter its jaw. A source confirmed this late Friday.
The neighbor is working with animal control on an investigation and hopes to get charges filed. It is unconfirmed if the incident caused Ruddick's supsension.
Missouri State Director of Athletics Kyle Moats confirmed that University officials support Steckel’s decision. Moats also noted MSU’s Student-Athlete Code of Conduct is being followed in this situation.
A sophomore from Marion, Ark., Ruddick has started both of the Bears’ games this season. Senior Brodie Lambert, who is listed as the No. 2 quarterback on the team’s depth chart, is now expected to start for MSU against the Wildcats on Saturday.
