MIDLAND PROSECUTORS DROP POSSESSION CHARGE AGAINST BENSON

AUSTIN- Midland County prosecutors on Tuesday dismissed a marijuana
possession charge against Texas running back Cedric Benson for lack of
evidence.

"We couldn't link Cedric to it," said Midland County Assistant District
Attorney Bob Stevens. "There has been no indication he was aware of it and
possessed it. We have to have evidence and it's just simply not there."

The Big 12 freshman of the year and a female acquaintance were arrested
April 27 at a Midland apartment after police responded to a call about loud
music.

Benson, 19, and Melanie Robinson, 20, were charged with possession of
marijuana under 2 ounces, a Class B misdemeanor, and drug paraphernalia and
being a minor in possession of alcohol, both Class C misdemeanors.

The drug paraphernalia and alcohol possession charges against Benson were
filed in municipal court and their status was not immediately known.

Stevens said the possession charge against Robinson, who leased the
apartment, had not been dismissed.

Benson set UT freshman record with 1,053 yards on 223 carries last season
and scored 12 touchdowns.