Houston Texans safety Jimmie Ward has had all domestic violence charges against him dropped. It took a grand jury several weeks to decide not to indict him. The decision comes in the wake of an unwarranted deadly raid at Ward’s residence in Magnolia, Texas on June 12. He was arrested on that basis for direct family violence there. On at least three occasions, [Ward] violently assaulted [the woman] resulting in bruising and other injuries. These attacks were both sexual and physical, even in front of their three-year-old daughter.
In the wake of Ward’s arrest, immediate action was taken. He was then put on the NFL’s commissioner exempt list, keeping him from any team activities. Despite the grand jury’s overwhelming evidence, there were no probable cause findings against him to sustain the allegations. This decision paves the way for Ward’s return to the field. His attorney, Steve Jackson, added that under state law, Dapper could be removed from the exempt list as soon as next week.
Although the grand jury exonerated him, substantial legal challenges still loom for Ward. So on August 7, he was re-arrested for twice violating conditions of release by drinking—conditions that included a mandate to stop drinking. Ward had tested positive for alcohol following this arrest and was remanded until the next day. On August 21, the woman sued Ward in Harris County District Court. She is asking for more than $20 million in damages.
In a statement to KPRC-TV, Ward said he was thankful the grand jury chose not to indict.
“I can finally move forward.” – Jimmie Ward
Jackson placed enormous emphasis on the grand jury’s findings. He argued that they had not only exonerated Ward of any wrongdoing but had highlighted his innocence.
“We believe not only was he exonerated by the grand jury but that the actions of the grand jury show that Jimmie was factually innocent.” – Steve Jackson
He thanked everyone who stood by Ward during the whole process, saying,
“for their belief in Jimmie to let the facts all come out and not rush to judgment.” – Steve Jackson
The policy outcry has been covered by numerous media outlets, from the Houston Chronicle to ESPN’s DJ Bien-Aime, who writes about the Houston Texans for the outlet. Bien-Aime, who completed his college athletic career at Louisville, has been following the scene closely. Now, he’s committed to telling the team and players’ stories through authentic, credible reporting.
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