Vanderbilt Rape Trial To Wrap Up With Defense Arguments

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Defense attorneys for a former Vanderbilt football player accused of encouraging his teammates to rape an unconscious coed are scheduled to present their closing arguments.

Branden Vandenburg is facing five counts of aggravated rape, two counts of aggravated sexual assault, tampering with evidence and unlawful photography.

Following the attorneys' closing arguments Tuesday, jurors will have to decide whether to hold Vandenburg responsible for what two of his teammates are accused of doing. Vandenburg never had sex with the woman or penetrated her. However, prosecutors say he should be held responsible for encouraging others to assault her on campus in June of 2013.

Vandenburg and Corey Batey are being tried this week. Two other players who have been charged have yet to go to trial.

All four have pleaded not guilty.