Minnesota Vikings cornerback Jeff Gladney was released by the team on August 3 following his indictment by a Texas federal judge for felony assault that occurred in April.
The Vikings released a statement on Twitter:
“Following our review of today’s indictment against Jeff Gladney, we have decided to release Jeff immediately,” the team said in a statement. “As we have previously said, we take these matters very seriously and condemn all forms of domestic violence. Due to the ongoing legal nature of this matter, we are unable to provide further comment.”
According to a lawsuit filed against Gladney by a 22-year-old woman, an altercation grew out of an argument and took place over more than two hours. She also alleges in the suit that he tried to bribe her and intimidate her into keeping quiet. Gladney was charged with domestic violence by impeding breathing for “intentionally, knowingly and recklessly” causing bodily injury and applying pressure to the woman’s neck and throat.
No court date has been scheduled yet. If convicted, Gladney could serve up to 10 years in prison.
NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy said the league office “will continue to review this serious and concerning matter under the personal conduct policy” and monitor all legal developments.
