VALPARAISO | Two Valparaiso University men's basketball players accused of sexually assaulting a young woman while she was visiting the campus in early 2007 will not face criminal charges.

"Basically, (it was the) victim's request. It's not that we had evidentiary issues. She just kind of wants to move on," Deputy Prosecutor Cheryl Polarek said.

"I absolutely believe this (assault) happened, based on the evidence."

The players, both of whom have since moved on from VU, can't be prosecuted without the victim's testimony, Polarek said. Polarek said she could have forced the victim to cooperate, but said the woman had her power taken away as a result of the sexual assault.

"I have to give the power back to the victim," Polarek said.

Polarek said the woman got some satisfaction from VU's administrative process, since she was "believed" and the two players were suspended from the university for two years. Polarek said both players have apparently left for good.

In addition, the woman has benefited from counseling and now wants to focus on her future without being burdened by returning to Valparaiso to deal with a criminal case.

Polarek said she gave the victim time to make her decision and the final decision came after several months, Polarek said.

Polarek said she is not bothered that a case will not proceed since it is the victim's choice.

VU officials said they would not comment on a specific student issue, but said they were concerned anytime they hear allegations of misconduct. Prosecutors said the assault occurred on campus and VU police conducted the investigation.