Washington (United States) (AFP) – Atlanta Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski said Wednesday he had “nothing to add” on the felony charges faced by rookie linebacker James Pearce Jr. in an alleged violent domestic dispute with WNBA player Rickea Jackson.
“On the James Pearce situation, there’s really nothing to add,” Stefanski told reporters at a press conference that had been previously scheduled with the team’s offensive and defensive coordinators. “Our coaches will defer to the statement that was put out,” Stefanski said, referring to a Falcons statement saying the team was “aware” of the incident and gathering more information.
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James, 22, was arrested on Saturday near Miami after allegedly purposely crashing his SUV into the car of ex-girlfriend Jackson. James is also accused of intentionally hitting a police officer’s knee with his vehicle while trying to get away. Charges against him include aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated stalking, as well as aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, charges he has denied through his attorney.
“Mr. Pearce maintains his innocence and urges the public to understand that while allegations have the power to shape a narrative, that it is hardly the full, complete story,” his lawyer, Jacob Nunez, said in a statement on Monday. “We look forward to vigorously defending our client and remain confident that he will continue contributing positively to both his team and the community he serves so well.”
Jackson, who plays for the WNBA’s Los Angeles Sparks and was in Florida to play in the Unrivaled three-on-three league, reportedly told police that Pearce had been stalking her since she ended their three-year relationship. ESPN reported on Wednesday that lawyers for Jackson had filed a court notice in Miami-Dade County saying that she was “willing to testify” if the case against Pearce goes to trial.
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