Nittany Lion mascot James D. Sheep has been suspended from his position until Dec. 31 and will not travel to Pasadena, Calif., for the Rose Bowl game because of a violation of team rules, according to a statement released by Penn State Athletics this afternoon.

Sheep, who was charged with DUI on Nov. 26, will not act as mascot at any Penn State athletic events before Dec. 31 and will not attend any Rose Bowl events, according to the statement.

"James has been a very enthusiastic and hard-working Nittany Lion, but we are disappointed that his recent actions did not represent the high standards of this position," said Curt White, Penn State cheerleading coach, according to the statement. "We are planning to have James resume his duties in the new year and are confident that he will represent Penn State Athletics and the University with a high level of energy, dedication and respect."

Another member of the Penn State cheerleading squad will take Sheep's place at the Rose Bowl and other athletic events this month, according to the statement.

For more information, check Friday's issue of The Daily Collegian.