New England Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers pleaded not guilty to several charges after his arrest on Saturday in Braintree, Massachusetts, including strangulation and drug possession. Peppers, who recently turned 29, faces charges such as assault and battery, assault with a dangerous weapon, and possession of a Class B substance believed to be cocaine.
Authorities reported that they were called to a residential disturbance early Saturday morning, where they found evidence of an altercation between Peppers and a woman, who is said to have had an on-and-off relationship with him for approximately three years. The woman accused Peppers of physically assaulting her, claiming he hit and choked her multiple times, removed her clothing, and put her outside.
When police arrived, Peppers answered the door shirtless and acknowledged the situation. He was taken into custody without incident. Officers found a clear bag with white powder during their search, which later tested positive for cocaine. The woman received treatment for injuries sustained during the altercation.
Peppers appeared in Quincy District Court on Monday morning, where he was released on $2,500 bail and instructed to maintain distance from the woman involved. His attorney argued that evidence, including video footage, raises serious doubts about the allegations made against him.
A hearing is set for November 22, although Peppers will not be required to attend. The Patriots are currently gathering information regarding the incident. Coach Jerod Mayo stated that Peppers is still allowed at team facilities while they assess the situation. Peppers did not participate in the Patriots’ recent game against the Miami Dolphins due to a shoulder injury.
The Patriots released a statement acknowledging their awareness of the ongoing police investigation. Meanwhile, the NFL indicated that it is also monitoring the situation but did not provide additional comments. Peppers signed a three-year, $24 million contract extension in July.