Rickea Jackson Seeks Protective Order Against James Pearce Jr. for Safety Concerns
WNBA player Rickea Jackson has taken legal steps to ensure her safety by filing a protective order against her ex-boyfriend, James Pearce Jr., who plays for the Atlanta Falcons. The petition, submitted shortly after Pearce’s arrest for battery and stalking, highlights Jackson’s fears for her life.
Legal Action Against James Pearce Jr.
According to court documents, Jackson expressed significant concerns for her safety, stating, “If the court doesn’t intervene, I believe James will kill me.” She filed the petition for an injunction against dating violence just days after an alarming incident on February 7.
The court initially granted her request for protection. A hearing for a permanent injunction is scheduled for April 21. Pearce is currently barred from contacting Jackson and must maintain a distance of 500 feet from her home and workplace and 100 feet from her vehicle.
Details of the Incident
- On February 7, Jackson reported that Pearce followed her in his vehicle as she drove home.
- She decided to drive to a police station in Doral, Florida, fearing for her safety.
- Pearce allegedly attempted to force his way into her vehicle, blocked her at a traffic light, and struck her car multiple times.
- The altercation escalated into a dangerous situation, leading to Pearce’s arrest after a police chase.
Charges Against Pearce
Pearce, 22, faces serious legal consequences including:
- Two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
- One count of aggravated stalking.
- Fleeing and eluding police officers.
- Aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer.
- Nine traffic citations and a misdemeanor for resisting an officer without violence.
History of Abuse and Threats
In her petition, Jackson detailed ongoing abuse and threats from Pearce. She mentioned instances of verbal and physical abuse, including incidents that occurred before her eventual breakup with him. She reported that after she attempted to end the relationship, Pearce escalated his threatening behavior.
Prior to the incident, Pearce allegedly offered Jackson significant amounts of money to stay with him, indicating the lengths he would go to maintain their relationship. Jackson attempted to break up with him but encountered resistance and threats instead.
Previous Incidents with Law Enforcement
This was not Pearce’s first troubling instance with law enforcement. Records show that police had responded to multiple 911 calls involving Pearce and an unnamed ex-girlfriend, suggesting a pattern of harassment. Jackson described Pearce’s behavior as obsessive, detailing harassment through text messages and other means.
As the situation develops, the Falcons organization has declined to comment. Jackson’s safety remains the primary focus as she prepares for the forthcoming court hearings.
