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The Philadelphia Eagles headed into their NFC Wild Card matchup against the San Francisco 49ers with plenty of hype, but Cooper DeJean’s family woke up to a very different headline. On Sunday morning in Iowa, Cooper’s younger brother, Beckett DeJean, was arrested just hours before kickoff, according to multiple reports.
What Happened in Iowa?
Beckett DeJean, 20, was taken into custody in Ida County, Iowa, early Sunday on suspicion of Operating While Intoxicated (OWI). The arrest was first reported by TMZ, which stated that local jail records confirmed the charge and booking details. The outlet reported that Beckett was booked at 1:09 a.m. local time, and the offense is listed as a first-offense OWI, which falls under the misdemeanor category in Iowa.
Although classified as a misdemeanor, Iowa law treats a first OWI seriously. The Iowa Department of Transportation notes that a conviction can bring steep fines, a temporary loss of driving privileges, and possible jail time. Those penalties can vary depending on the individual’s blood alcohol level and other factors connected to the arrest.
Why OWI Instead of DUI?
For many outside Iowa, the OWI label might sound unusual. Terms like OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) and DUI (Driving Under the Influence) are often used interchangeably across states, but there is a legal distinction. A DUI generally covers situations where a vehicle is actively being driven. In contrast, OWI laws are broader—someone can be charged simply for having “physical control” of a vehicle, even if it’s not moving, as long as authorities believe it could be operated.
No Comment From the DeJean Family
Beckett DeJean previously played defensive back for the South Dakota Coyotes, earning attention as a young athlete in the Midwest. As of now, it’s unclear whether he has obtained legal representation, and attempts for comment reportedly went unanswered on Sunday. Cooper DeJean and the Philadelphia Eagles did not release any public statements prior to their playoff game, and his family has remained silent as well.
Given that Beckett is not currently affiliated with an NFL team or considered a near-term draft prospect, the arrest isn’t expected to carry the same professional consequences that an active athlete might face. However, the legal process ahead could still carry personal and social fallout as the case moves forward.
Legal Questions Still Unanswered
More clarity is expected in the coming days as the legal system processes the charges. For now, Beckett DeJean faces a first-offense OWI and the uncertainty that comes with it. There is no timeline yet for future court appearances, and law enforcement has released no additional information regarding his blood alcohol level or the circumstances of the stop.
While Sunday should have been solely focused on Cooper’s playoff moment in Philadelphia, the DeJean family found themselves in the news for a very different reason—one that will likely continue to unfold after the final whistle of the Wild Card round.
FAQ:
Who is Beckett DeJean?
Beckett DeJean is the younger brother of Philadelphia Eagles defensive back Cooper DeJean. He previously played college football as a defensive back for the South Dakota Coyotes.
Why was Beckett DeJean arrested?
According to reports, Beckett was arrested in Ida County, Iowa, on a charge of Operating While Intoxicated (OWI), which is considered a first offense.
When did the arrest happen?
Jail records indicate that Beckett was taken into custody early Sunday morning and booked around 1:09 a.m. local time.
Is an OWI the same as a DUI?
Not exactly. OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) is a broader term used in places like Iowa and can apply even if the vehicle is not moving. DUI (Driving Under the Influence) usually refers to actively driving while impaired. The legal definitions vary by state.
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