DA apologizes to Syracuse coach Bernie Fine accusers for being unable to press charges
(CBS/AP) SYRACUSE, N.Y. - A district attorney in upstate New York is praising two men for coming forward with accusations of sex abuse against a Syracuse University former assistant basketball coach.
But Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick is also apologizing for not being able to bring charges against Bernie Fine because the statute of limitations has passed.
Fitzpatrick said on Wednesday that despite being unable to press charges, he found that two men who accused Fine of sexual abuse are credible.
Bobby Davis and his step-brother Michael Lang have accused Fine of molesting them for years starting in the 1980s.
At a news conference, Fitzpatrick said: "Bobby, I'm sorry it took so long." He praised Davis, saying he was "fighting for other kids."
23-year-old Zach Tomaselli, of Lewiston, Maine has also accused Fine of sexual abuse, but Fitzpatrick said his allegations don't relate to Onondaga County. Tomaselli's claims, which fall within federal statutes of limitations, are being investigated by federal authorities.
More on Crimesider
November 28, 2011 - Syracuse asst. basketball coach Bernie Fine fired following 3rd allegation of sex abuse
November 18, 2011 - Syracuse asst. basketball coach Bernie Fine put on leave following allegations of sex abuse
December 6, 2011 - Accuser of Syracuse coach Bernie Fine admits to sexually abusing boy