Patriots' Jabrill Peppers Charged with Strangulation and Drug Possession

 Patriots' Jabrill Peppers Charged with Strangulation and Drug Possession

### Patriots' Jabrill Peppers Pleads Not Guilty to Strangulation and Drug Charges

**FOXBOROUGH, Mass.** — New England Patriots safety Jabrill Peppers pleaded not guilty on Monday after being arrested Saturday on charges including strangulation and drug possession, according to police in Braintree, Massachusetts.

Police announced Peppers' arrest on Monday, detailing that they responded to a disturbance early Saturday morning following a report of an altercation. 

Peppers, who turned 29 on Friday, faces charges of "assault and battery, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, strangulation, and possession of a Class B substance believed to be cocaine." 

According to the police report, the woman involved alleged that Peppers hit her, choked her multiple times, removed her clothing, and put her outside. Officers stated that he also shoved her to the ground and against a wall.

 

When police arrived, Peppers answered the door shirtless and acknowledged the situation, saying, "I know what is going on." He was arrested without incident.

The police report indicated that officers confiscated a "clear bag containing white powder," which later tested positive for cocaine. The woman received treatment at home for injuries to her face and knees.

The woman reported that she and Peppers had been in an "on and off" relationship for about three years.

During his arraignment in Quincy District Court, Peppers posted $2,500 bail and was ordered to stay away from the woman. His attorney, Marc Brofsky, stated that evidence, including videotaped material, raises doubts about the allegations.

The next court hearing is set for November 22, though Peppers was permitted to waive his appearance.

In a statement, the Patriots acknowledged they were aware of the incident and that the police are investigating. The NFL also noted it is aware of the matter but had no further comments.

Peppers, a team captain, did not play in the Patriots' recent 15-10 loss to the Miami Dolphins due to a shoulder injury. Patriots coach Jerod Mayo mentioned he was informed of the situation and that the team is still gathering information, allowing Peppers access to team facilities for the time being.

"We don't know enough to say he shouldn't be in the building," Mayo added.