James Pearce Jr. Charged with Aggravated Battery and Stalking Arrest
Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. was arrested over the weekend in South Florida following a police chase that led to a crash in a residential area. The incident, which was captured on cell phone video, has raised significant attention due to the charges against Pearce.
Charges Against James Pearce Jr.
Pearce, 22, faces multiple serious charges according to court records:
- Two counts of felony aggravated battery with a deadly weapon
- One count of felony aggravated stalking
- One count of felony fleeing from law enforcement
- One count of felony aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer
- One count of misdemeanor resisting an officer without violence
Details of the Incident
The Doral Police Department was initially involved when Pearce was at the station with his girlfriend, Rickea Jackson, a player for the Los Angeles Sparks. The couple reportedly got into a domestic dispute, prompting officers to intervene. However, Pearce fled the station in Jackson’s car, leading to a police chase.
This chase ended in a crash within a gated community. Bystanders recorded segments of the arrest, which quickly went viral.
Judicial Proceedings
The following day, Pearce appeared before a Miami-Dade circuit judge. The judge set his bond at $20,500 and issued a protective order requiring Pearce to stay away from Jackson.
About James Pearce Jr. and Rickea Jackson
Pearce made headlines during the 2022 NFL Draft when the Falcons selected him as the 26th overall pick. He had an impressive rookie season, completing 10.5 sacks and 26 tackles, and was a finalist for defensive rookie of the year honors. Jackson, previously the No. 4 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, had an average of 14.7 points and 3.2 rebounds per game for the Sparks last season.
The Atlanta Falcons have acknowledged the situation and stated they are gathering more information but chose not to comment further at this time.
