USF running back Michel Dukes -- who scored five touchdowns for the Bulls last season -- has been suspended from the school's football team indefinitely ... after he was accused of strangling a person in a domestic violence attack over the weekend.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said the incident happened on Saturday near USF's campus ... after a victim alleged Dukes had gotten physical with them following a verbal argument.
Police said the victim told them Dukes had strangled them during the encounter. The 22-year-old football player was then arrested and booked on a charge of domestic battery by strangulation.
He's since been released.
"We have taken the immediate step of suspending him indefinitely from the team as we continue to gather more information and the proper authorities investigate the matter," USF athletics said in a statement following the arrest.
"We will have no further statement at this time."
Hillsborough County sheriff Chad Chronister, meanwhile, added in a statement of his own, "We do not tolerate domestic violence. There is never a reason or excuse for this type of behavior. Our Victim Advocates will ensure this individual gets connected with any and all resources."
🔥MICHEL DUKES🔥@USFFootball is up 28-24 in Gainesville!#AmericanFB x #US2F pic.twitter.com/IPVP5GoFZX
— American Football (@American_FB) September 18, 2022
Dukes -- a 5-foot-10 tailback -- initially began his college football career at Clemson in 2019 ... but went on to transfer to USF before last season.
He played 11 games for the Bulls in 2022 ... logging 188 rushing yards and five TDs -- which were the second-most scores on the team. He also caught eight passes for 72 yards.