Falcons’ James Pearce Jr. Faces Three Felony Charges and Misdemeanor
The Atlanta Falcons’ edge rusher, James Pearce Jr., faces significant legal challenges after being charged with multiple offenses in connection to an incident involving WNBA player Rickea Jackson. The charges were formally brought forth by the Miami-Dade State Attorney on March 12, 2026, stemming from events that occurred on February 7 of the same year.
James Pearce Jr.’s Charges Explained
Pearce, aged 22, has been charged with three felony counts:
- Aggravated battery with a deadly weapon
- Fleeing and eluding police
- Resisting an officer with violence
Additionally, a charge of felony aggravated stalking was reduced to a misdemeanor. An earlier charge of aggravated battery against a law enforcement officer was dropped.
Details of the Incident
On the day of the incident, Pearce allegedly followed Jackson, his ex-girlfriend, during an altercation. Reports indicate he used his vehicle to strike her car multiple times as she attempted to reach a police station in Doral, Florida. After encountering law enforcement, Pearce fled, leading police on a chase that ended with his vehicle crashing at an intersection.
Following the crash, he exited the vehicle and attempted to escape on foot but was apprehended by officers. Pearce subsequently resisted arrest and was taken into custody.
Legal Proceedings and Protective Orders
After spending a night in a correctional facility, Pearce was released on February 8 after posting a bond of $20,500. On February 9, Jackson filed for a protective order against Pearce, citing fears for her safety. In her petition, she alleged past verbal and physical abuse and expressed concerns that Pearce might kill her if no action were taken.
The court granted Jackson’s initial request for protection. A permanent injunction hearing is scheduled for April 21, where further decisions will be made regarding Pearce’s contact with Jackson. As part of the court’s orders, he must maintain a distance of 500 feet from her home and workplace, and 100 feet from her vehicle.
Ongoing Investigations and NFL Policies
The NFL is closely monitoring the developments surrounding Pearce’s situation, which is currently under review per the league’s personal conduct policy. The Falcons organization has declined to comment publicly on the matter.
Additionally, police reports indicate that authorities responded to at least seven other 911 calls related to Pearce and an ex-girlfriend in the months leading up to his arrest.
