Berry arrested for marijuana possession

Updated: June 11, 2009, 5:15 PM ET

Ohio State recruit Jaamal Berry has been arrested for felony marijuana possession, court records show.

Berry, a heralded running back from Miami and an ESPNU 150 prospect, was arrested Thursday and charged with possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana. The third-degree felony carries a penalty of up to five years in jail and a $5,000 fine.

Ohio State is aware of the situation but declined comment as it checks into the facts of Berry's case. His high school coach, Larry Coffey, told ESPN.com he has been in touch with Berry but declined further comment.

Berry, 18, ranked as the nation's third best running back and 22nd best player in the 2009 recruiting class, according to ESPN's Scouts Inc. He's widely regarded as Ohio State's top incoming recruit and had been expected to compete for playing time as a true freshman as the Buckeyes try to replace Chris "Beanie" Wells in the backfield.

Adam Rittenberg covers Big Ten football for ESPN.com. He can be reached at espnritt@gmail.com.