Former New England Patriots player and current NFL analyst Willie McGinest was arrested on Monday on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department confirmed to multiple media outlets that the 51-year-old turned himself in after an incident occurred on Dec. 9 at a popular Hollywood nightclub. Following his statement to the police, he was subsequently arrested but released from custody at 9:46 a.m. on a $30,000 bail.
The incident was caught on security footage and showed McGinest involved in a physical altercation with another man. After repeatedly punching the man, he proceeded to smash a bottle over the unnamed victim’s head. NFL Network spokesman Alex Reithmille confirmed that the Network is aware of their employee’s actions and will, “not appear on NFL Network while we review the matter.”
On Friday, the retired NFL player issued a public apology for his actions. “First and foremost, I want to offer my deepest apology for my lapse in judgment and behavior on December 9 at a restaurant in West Hollywood,” McGinest said in a statement.
“To my family, community friends, and youth I mentor, please know I feel horrible for my actions and take full responsibility,” he continued. “To my colleagues at the NFL Network and those I work closely with as an advisor to professional and community-based organizations, please know I am embarrassed and regret what occurred.”
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Willie McGinest says his incident doesn’t reflect his position as a role model
McGinest proceeded to note that he is ashamed of his actions and primarily disappointed with himself. “I know this is an isolated incident and is not reflective of my faith, role as a father, life’s body of work, or the role model I’ve worked hard to become,” he explained.
“It is personally devastating that decades of community service, youth engagement, mentoring, and professional development would become an afterthought in a single moment that should have never happened.”
McGinest also added, “This incident has prompted me to deep self-reflection — mind, soul, and spirit. I know that violence is never the answer to such situations, no matter how intense the provocation.”
Once again apologizing for his act of violence, the ex-NFL star concluded his statement with the sentiments, “Rest assured, I will take whatever steps necessary to restore the public trust, mend damaged relationships, and ensure this never happens again.”
Given his admission of responsibility, he has likely resolved his criminal charges or plans to plead guilty if he appears in court.
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