Image source: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
Atlanta Falcons rookie James Pearce Jr. was arrested Saturday night in Florida following what police described as a chaotic domestic incident involving WNBA forward Rickea Jackson.
Authorities say the situation quickly escalated into a dangerous police chase, leaving the 22-year-old facing multiple felony charges, according to police reports and early media accounts.
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Police say the incident began near the Doral Police Headquarters. Officers allege Pearce intentionally rammed his Lamborghini into Jackson’s vehicle several times in an attempt to block her from reaching the station, according to the arrest report.
When officers arrived, Pearce reportedly sped away, triggering a high-speed pursuit through the area. During the chase, police say he drove directly toward an officer before eventually losing control of the vehicle.
The pursuit ended when Pearce crashed at the intersection of Northwest 103rd Avenue and 66th Street. Videos that circulated on social media showed multiple officers restraining him on the pavement after the crash, as he was taken into custody.
According to police, Pearce now faces a long list of serious charges. Authorities booked him on two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and fleeing from law enforcement. He also faces charges related to striking an officer with his vehicle and resisting arrest, according to the police report.
By Sunday morning, Pearce was being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. Because of the severity of several charges, a judge did not immediately grant bond on all counts, leaving him in custody while legal proceedings begin, according to jail records.
The Atlanta Falcons addressed the situation with a short statement, saying the organization is still collecting details and will not comment further while the legal matter remains ongoing.
Even before the legal process plays out, the NFL could step in under its Personal Conduct Policy. Players facing serious charges are often placed on the Commissioner’s Exempt List, which prevents them from participating in team activities while the league conducts its own review.
The arrest comes just days after Pearce finished a standout rookie season. The former Tennessee star was a first-round pick and set a Falcons rookie record with 10.5 sacks. He also finished third in Defensive Rookie of the Year voting earlier in the week, according to league statistics.
Before entering the NFL, Pearce was widely viewed as one of the nation’s top pass rushers at Tennessee. He earned First-Team All-SEC honors and built a reputation as one of the most disruptive defensive players in college football, according to conference records.
Now, instead of building on a promising NFL start, Pearce’s future is uncertain. With serious charges pending and the league likely to investigate, his football career is on hold while the legal process unfolds. Fans in both Knoxville and Atlanta are left waiting to see what happens next.
FAQ:
Why was James Pearce Jr. arrested?
James Pearce Jr. was arrested after police said he was involved in a domestic dispute that escalated into a car incident and a high-speed chase in Florida.
What charges is James Pearce Jr. facing?
According to police reports, he faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, fleeing from law enforcement, striking an officer with a vehicle, and resisting arrest.
Where did the arrest take place?
The incident happened in Doral, Florida, and the chase ended after Pearce crashed his vehicle at a local intersection.
Was anyone else involved in the incident?
Police said the situation involved WNBA player Rickea Jackson, a forward for the Los Angeles Sparks, during what authorities described as a domestic dispute.
Where is James Pearce Jr. now?
He was being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center after his arrest, with bond not immediately granted on several charges.
How have the Atlanta Falcons responded?
The Falcons released a short statement saying they are gathering information and will not comment further while the legal matter is ongoing.
Could the NFL take action against James Pearce Jr.?
Yes. The NFL may review the case under its Personal Conduct Policy, and he could be placed on the Commissioner’s Exempt List during the investigation.
What was James Pearce Jr.’s performance in his rookie season?
Pearce had a strong debut year with the Falcons, recording 10.5 sacks and finishing third in Defensive Rookie of the Year voting.
Where did James Pearce Jr. play college football?
He played at the University of Tennessee, where he was widely considered one of the top pass rushers in the country and earned First-Team All-SEC honors.
How could this arrest affect his NFL career?
His future with the Falcons and in the NFL is uncertain while the legal process unfolds and the league conducts its own investigation.
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