An elevated felony charge has been filed against a Florida man accused of punching and injuringan Ohio State football player, 10TV News reported on Monday.
Authorities have charged Ralph Decker, 27, with felony battery after originally charging himwith a misdemeanor.
Decker allegedly punched Ohio State linebacker Tyler Moeller while he was vacationing with hisfamily last month in Treasure Island, Fla.
SLIDESHOW: Images Of Tyler Moeller
Moeller needed to undergo surgery to relieve pressure on his brain.
His mother, Amy, described the incident during an interview with 10TV News earlier thismonth.
"We were in Florida, first night of our family vacation," Amy said. "He was with my uncle and mychildren. It was just a freak thing. So he was blind-sided you know, assaulted and didn't even seeit coming."
Moeller is recovering but will miss the entire 2009 season.
Decker, if convicted, could face up to five years in prison.
Watch 10TV News and refresh 10TV.com for additional information.
Previous Stories:
August 14, 2009: Moeller Appears With Team Days After Brain Surgery
August 11, 2009: Tressel: Moeller Won't Play This Season
August 10, 2009: Moeller's Injury Overshadows Start Of Fall Camp
