Are police officers viewed like NFL players?

On Behalf of | Jun 15, 2017 | domestic violence |

It is only a matter of time before NFL training camps open later this summer and the story of Joe Mixon (and the controversy surrounding him) resurfaces. For those unfamiliar with the running back from the University of Oklahoma selected by the Cincinnati Bengals, he is essentially the new poster child for the angst against professional athletes who still play in the NFL despite having criminal convictions for domestic abuse.

What makes Mixon’s story so controversial is that he, like former NFL running back Ray Rice, is seen on video striking a woman. Rice’s video resulted in a year-long suspension and eventually a release from the Baltimore Ravens. Rice never played another down in the NFL.  This led many to speculate that Joe Mixon would not be drafted, and many believed that he should not be given the privilege to play in the league, despite all that he has done to make amends for his actions. 

Indeed, domestic violence is a serious issue, especially among police officers. Society arguably views officers accused of such abuse in the same lens as NFL players in that they believe that accused officers should no longer have their jobs.

Because of this, it is critical for officers facing such accusations to have experienced legal counsel to guide them through the legal process and mount the best defense possible. As we have noted in prior posts, some accusations could be lodged merely for vindictive, personal reasons and not because they have a legitimate legal basis.

If you have questions about what to do after being accused on domestic violence, an experienced criminal defense attorney can advise you.