Florida State University (FSU) star quarterback Jameis Winston has been cleared in code of conduct hearing, coming out as innocent with regards to the December 2012 alleged sexual assault of a female FSU student.

For months, Winston's head was being readied for a stake as allegations poured in about a potential sexual harassment situation. However, he was recently found not responsible for violating Florida State's conduct code. The decision came from retired Florida Supreme Court justice Major Harding.

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Harding's decision comes 18 days after the December 3 conclusion of a school investigative hearing. After a nearly two-year delay and intense media attention to the case, Harding was retained by FSU to conduct the hearing.

USA Today Sports was able to procure a letter Harding wrote to Winston.

"This was a complex case, and I worked hard to make sure both parties had a full and fair opportunity to present information," Harding's letter reads. "In sum, the preponderance of the evidence has not shown that you are responsible for any of the charge violations of the Code."

Harding ended by saying that he found that the evidence before him was insufficient to satisfy the burden of proof.

The attorneys for the woman in question said that they were stunned and dismayed by the order. They explained that of the four people in the apartment, only their client testified and answered any and all questions about what happened.

The three football players in the room - Winston, Chris Casher, and Ronald Darby - all refused to testify and answer questions. Despite that, Winston still won. Aside from not following the Student Conduct Code, the Order also ignored the evidence, the attorneys said.

While they can appeal the decision, the FSU policy only allows the appeal to be filed within five class days. If ever, the appeal would be filed on January 13.

Tagsjameis winston, Quarterback, Florida State, FSU, Code of Conduct, sexual assault