Denver Broncos linebackers coach Michael Wilhoite was arrested on suspicion of second-degree assault on an officer, records obtained by 9News from the jail reveal. ESPN quotes that the 38-year-old was booked on a no-bond hold in the Denver jail and is set to appear before a judge Monday. The nature of the incident is not specified, and Wilhoite, as well as the Broncos franchise, has released no statement. As the legal process continues, uncertainty looms regarding his future in the team.
Michael Wilhoite was arrested on suspicion of second-degree assault on an officer
New information has emerged about the arrest of Broncos linebackers coach Michael Wilhoite. In court documents, which were obtained by The Denver Post, Wilhoite is accused of punching a police officer in the face with a left hook before being tased and then driving away from the drop-off lane at Denver International Airport on Sunday. The 38-year-old, who just finished his second season with the Broncos, now has a felony assault charge against him.
Wilhoite allegedly disregarded the officer's repeated demand and answered in an aggressive tone, resulting in a physical confrontation. The affidavit states that the coach aggressively pushed the officer with his chest, and the officer pushed him back. Wilhoite then allegedly punched the officer in the face, sending him to the ground before he returned to his vehicle.
When Wilhoite opened the door to his car, the officer used a taser, which hit him in the left hip and side, the affidavit states. The effects of the taser only lasted for a few seconds before Wilhoite was able to drive away in his Bronco. The officer had "visible injuries" on his knees and had moderate jaw pain. After his appearance in court on Monday, Wilhoite's bond was raised to $5,000, according to The Denver Post.
The judge expressed concern over a potentially escalated incident at the airport, involving thousands of people, leading to an alleged assault on a police officer. “That a routine, everyday encounter turned violent is concerning to the court,” Magistrate Arnie Beckman said.
“We are aware of a situation involving Michael Wilhoite that occurred Sunday and are in the process of gathering more information,” the Broncos said in a statement to 9 News. Wilhoite played six NFL seasons from 2012-17, including five with the 49ers. He ended his career with the Seahawks, starting 45 games. He began his coaching career with the Saints in 2019.
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