NEW ORLEANS, La.- From radio personalities to sports fans, strong opinions are floating around about Former NFL Safety and convicted rapist Darren Sharper’s nomination for Pro Football’s Hall of Fame.
Shirley Young is an advocate for Metropolitan Center for Women and Children. The fact that Sharper’s even being considered angers Young and she says it shows, once again, the lack of respect for rape victims across our country.
"I believe in the past, ball players were held to a higher standard. They were suppose to be neat and and clean looking and outstanding citizens. They weren't suppose to be seen drunk or anything. And now, it seems like a lot more is accepted,” Young said.
In an interview with the Associated Press, a spokesperson for the Hall of Fame says there’s no character clause in their bylaws.
Sherper is serving an 18 year prison sentence after pleading guilty to drugging and raping at least 16 women across several states. Sharper is appealing his conviction and sentence. His case hits home. The Saints tore down a banner with his picture on it from Champion’s Square.
At Lucy’s Retired Surfer’s Bar and Restaurant, his nomination is sparking a lot of emotion.
"It doesn't sound like doesn't have very good character. Criminals shouldn't be allowed in the Hall of Fame, Tourist Lory Theilbar said.
"Yes and no. Cause I’m real sensitive about the issues. What he did. And I think he worked for the nomination as well,” New Orleans native Don Brooks said.
This is not the first time a controversial player has been in the spotlight.
O.J. Simpson, who is now serving time in prison for kidnapping and robbery and who was found not guilty for the murder of his wife Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman, remains a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, despite calls and attempts to have him removed.