On Monday Oct. 23, Kansas City Chiefs WR, Justyn Ross was arrested in Shawnee, Kan. Ross has been charged with domestic battery and criminal property damages totaling less than $1,000. Ross pleaded not guilty to both charges during his hearing the following day. Ross’ bond was set to $2,500 and returned to practice with the Chiefs on Wednesday. Head Coach Andy Reid commented that they are taking in the information and going with it. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes says that while he doesn’t know the details, the locker room is a brotherhood and they will continue to support each other.
Kansas law defines domestic battery as knowingly causing harm to someone the offender is involved with, whether that is in a relationship or a family member. Ross is back to court on Dec. 4. These situations, while not uncommon among NFL players, show the influence that these athletes have on their community and fans. Fans are often outraged with the NFL’s process in disciplining the players for their actions. Oftentimes players are not fined or suspended for months or even years after these situations occur.