New England Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers pleaded not guilty on Monday following his arrest on Saturday, which involved multiple charges, including strangulation and drug possession, according to Braintree, Massachusetts police.
The police reported that they responded to a disturbance call early Saturday, where it was indicated that an altercation had taken place. Peppers, who recently celebrated his 29th birthday, faces charges of assault and battery, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, strangulation, and possession of a Class B drug believed to be cocaine.
Details from the police statement noted that the woman involved alleged that Peppers physically assaulted her, including choking her several times, forcibly removing her clothing, and putting her outside. She claimed that he also pushed her to the ground and inflicted additional physical harm.
Peppers reportedly answered the door shirtless when police arrived and acknowledged their presence. He was taken into custody without resistance. During the police investigation, officers confiscated a bag containing a white powder, which later tested positive for cocaine. The woman received treatment at home for injuries sustained to her face and knees.
The woman stated that she and Peppers had an on-and-off relationship for approximately three years. Peppers was arraigned in Quincy District Court, where he entered a not guilty plea. After posting $2,500 bail, he was instructed to avoid contact with the woman.
Peppers’ attorney, Marc Brofsky, argued in court that evidence should create doubt regarding the allegations, including videotaped evidence. Although Peppers was permitted to waive his appearance in the next hearing set for November 22, he must adhere to the court’s orders regarding contact.
In a statement, the Patriots acknowledged awareness of the incident and noted that an investigation is ongoing. The NFL also confirmed its awareness but did not provide further comments.
Peppers, a team captain, was not in the lineup for the Patriots’ recent game against the Miami Dolphins, as he had been limited in practice due to a shoulder injury. Coach Jerod Mayo conveyed that while they are still gathering information about the situation, Peppers would be allowed to be at the team’s facilities for the time being.
“He called me that morning. I knew what was going on. We’ve informed the NFL of the situation,” Mayo said. “I don’t think anyone knows the facts or anything like that. It’s a process.”
Peppers recently signed a three-year, $24 million extension with the team in July.