New York Jets' Sheldon Richardson charged with resisting arrest
Friday 31 July 2015 08:44, UK
New York Jets defensive lineman Sheldon Richardson is facing legal troubles after being charged with resisting arrest and traffic violations on July 14.
The incident, which occurred near Richardson’s home in St Charles County, Missouri, comes just two weeks after his NFL-issued four-game drug suspension.
According to a release issued by the St Charles County Prosecuting Attorney's Office, Richardson was driving at "exceedingly high rates of speed" on Interstate 64 in "what appeared to be a road race".
In the police incident report, an officer stated that Richardson took off at speeds as high as 143 mph. Richardson eventually exited the car, along with two adult passengers and a 12-year-old boy.
A fully loaded semi-automatic handgun was found underneath the driver's floor mat, and the car smelled of marijuana.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Richardson admitted he is disappointed in himself for what he called "a mistake" and is "embarrassed" for his parents.
"I'm not a dope fiend, man," he told reporters. "I apologised to my team-mates and this organisation. I told them they don't have to worry about my name being in the news again."
This arrest caps a troubled offseason for the talented 24-year-old who was the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2013 and a Pro Bowl selection last season.
Richardson is scheduled to appear in St Charles Circuit Court on October 27 for his arraignment.
