Why was former New England Patriots Hall of Famer Willie McGinest arrested in Hollywood?
Though details are scarce at the moment, video appears to show the legendary linebacker involved in a vicious attack on another man.
In scenes that were both brutal and disturbing, the former NFL star can be seen joining in the seemingly unprovoked beating of another patron at an upscale Hollywood establishment.
Willie McGinest arrested following assault with deadly weapon
According to multiple reports, former New England Patriots star Willie McGinest was arrested and charged with assault with a deadly weapon on Monday after he turned himself in to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The news follows an incident which actually took place on December 9th at the Delilah nightclub in West Hollywood. Multiple witnesses allegedly identified the 51-year-old as being present at the club and part of a group of individuals who assaulted another person who was in attendance.
A two-time Pro Bowler, McGinest can be seen in security footage that has since been released, approaching another man’s table with a group of men. the Patriots Hall of Famer can then be seen repeatedly punching the alleged victim, after which he even retrieves a bottle which he used to hit the man again. Toward the end of the video, the victim can be seen with a bloodied face. While no details have been released by the police regarding the assault itself, it is understood that McGinest was booked into custody half an hour after his arrest on Monday morning. The three-time Super Bowl champion then posted bail for $30,000 and was released hours later. Reports indicate that a court appearance is scheduled for Wednesday.
The NFL lays out consequences for Willie McGinest’s actions
Given the severe nature of the situation and the video evidence to support the allegations against him, it wasn’t long before the league itself gave a statement on McGinest’s actions. Having played 15 seasons as a linebacker, McGinest enjoyed a career playing for both the Browns and Patriots, but it was the 12 years he spent in New England that he will be best known for. During that time, he registered 78 of his 86 career sacks, while collecting three Super Bowl rings. Not long after his playing career came to an end, McGinest began what would become a prominent role as an analyst on the NFL Network. Needless to say, that role has now been rescinded while the legal process unfolds. “We are aware of the incident and the video, which is disturbing,” an NFL Network spokesperson said. “Willie McGinest will not appear on NFL Network while we review the matter.”