By Jimmy Hyams

Former Tennessee quarterback Sterling Henton had his case dismissed today regarding a July 3 charge of criminal simulation for depositing a check worth more than $95,000.

Henton said he was part of a “catfishing’’ scheme. He said he did not take any funds from the check after depositing it.

Sean McDermott of the Assistant District Attorney General’s office said charges were dismissed after a “complete and thorough investigation’’ conducted by the DA’s office.

“After obtaining the file from KPD, the District Attorney met with Mr. Henton who cooperated with KPD investigators, Special Agents of the United States Secret Service, and Postal Inspectors with the United States Postal Service and was able to provide evidence that he was the victim of a scam,’’ the DA office said in a statement.

“It is the duty of the District Attorney not only to pursue the guilty but also to protect the innocent to assure that justice is achieved. The dismissal of this case was necessary in order to meet that duty.’’

Wade Davies, Henton’s attorney, said his client was the “victim of a scheme that looked like a legitimate business transaction. He was sent a check that turned out to be fake. He didn’t attempt to withdraw any money. He cooperated fully with the investigation. The case was dismissed because he was innocent.’’

Davies said the court date was continued twice in order to complete the investigation.

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