Rashee Rice, a prominent wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs, faced serious legal repercussions after pleading guilty to two third-degree felony charges in district court. The indictments stem from a high-speed crash that occurred on May 30, 2024, in Dallas, TX. At the time, Rice was behind the wheel of a Lamborghini Urus, zooming down the highway at an outrageous 119 mph. The crash caused a third party bodily injury collision as well, which contributed to his eventual sentencing.
For Rice, his legal woes began with the admission of one crime—street racing on a public highway. This dangerous and irresponsible behavior ultimately caused a collision that resulted in catastrophic injuries. The incident not only impacted the victims but affected Rice’s professional career. He suffered a torn right ACL in Week 4 last season and was unable to participate in the Chiefs’ AFC championship campaign thereafter. Currently, Rice is required to serve at least 30 days in jail as part of his sentence. He can serve out this term at any time during his five-year probationary period.
Besides his time in jail, Rice was granted deferred adjudication. If he makes it through the probationary period without incident, the charges will be dropped. To date he has paid $115,400 of that restitution—including interest. This is just the cost of the victims’ medical expenses as a result of the crash.
“Last March, I was involved in a high-speed accident in Dallas,” – Rashee Rice.
The Dallas district attorney, John Creuzot, spoke about the seriousness of Rice’s conduct when the fellow made his court appearance. Attorney Frank Pitre focused on the irresponsibility behind the wheel matched with the responsibility that comes with Rice’s public platform.
“When someone with Mr. Rice’s public platform chooses to drive so recklessly, there is a responsibility to acknowledge the danger posed to others and take accountability,” – John Creuzot.
Creuzot pointed out the positive outcome of the situation. No one died that day, and Rice made it through without being harmed – a truth he implored Rice to focus on going forward.
“A vehicle in the wrong hands can be as dangerous as any weapon. We are extremely fortunate that no lives were lost that day, and Mr. Rice is fortunate to have walked away unharmed. We hope he takes this as an opportunity to mature and leads by example moving forward,” – John Creuzot.
In his own statement after the sentencing, Rice said it was a regrettable incident. He expressed empathy towards the victims and their families and encouraged anyone behind the wheel to do everything possible to keep our roadways safe.
“There have been a lot of sleepless nights thinking about the damages that my actions caused, and I will continue working within my means to make sure that everyone impacted will be made whole. I urge everyone to mind the speed limit, drive safe and drive smart,” – Rashee Rice.
After the initial bumps in the road, Rice has made himself an indispensable asset for the Chiefs. In 2023, he left the season as the second-leading receiver on the Super Bowl-winning team, scoring nine touchdowns on only 20 professional games played. Because of his ongoing legal troubles, he was widely thought to be facing at least a multigame suspension.
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