James Pearce Jr.'s Attorney Says NFL Rookie 'Maintains His Innocence' After Arrest for Alleged Domestic Dispute with Rickea Jackson

NEED TO KNOW

• Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr.'s attorney issued a statement after the NFL rookie's Saturday, Feb. 7, arrest
• The 22-year-old athlete was apprehended after an alleged domestic dispute with girlfriend Rickea Jackson
• Pearce and Jackson seemingly confirmed their relationship in April 2025

James Pearce Jr.'s attorney is speaking out after the NFL rookie was arrested over the weekend.

On Saturday, Feb. 7, the 22-year-old linebacker for the Atlanta Falcons was arrested in Miami on Saturday, Feb. 7, after an alleged domestic dispute with his girlfriend, Los Angeles Sparks player Rickea Jackson, 24.

Pearce was charged with two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, one count of aggravated stalking, fleeing and eluding police officers and aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, according to the Associated Press.

According to a criminal complaint obtained by ESPN, Jackson called police after Pearce allegedly followed her in his vehicle and struck her car. When police arrived, Jackson allegedly attempted to drive off and struck an officer in the knee before fleeing on foot. He allegedly resisted arrest before he was detained by police.

In a statement shared with the outlet on Monday, Feb. 9, Pearce's lawyer, Jacob Nunez, said his client was innocent.

“We look forward to working with the State Attorney’s office in fully investigating this case and uncovering the truth,” he said.

“Mr. Pearce maintains his innocence and urges the public to understand that while allegations have the power to shape a narrative, that it is hardly the full, complete story," Nunez continued. "We look forward to vigorously defending our client and remain confident that he will continue contributing positively to both his team and the community he serves so well.”

Pearce was released on a $20,500 bond from Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center on Sunday, Feb. 8, the AP reported.

“We are aware of an incident involving James Pearce Jr. in Miami," the Falcons said in a statement to the AP. "We are in the process of gathering more information and will not have any further comment on an open legal matter at this time.”

"We have been in contact with the club regarding the matter which will be reviewed under the personal conduct policy," NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy told ESPN Monday.

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Additional details about the alleged dispute have not yet been revealed. Jackson does not appear to have commented on the situation yet.

The professional athletes sparked dating rumors in 2025 and appeared to confirm that they were an item when they seemingly hard-launched their relationship during the 2025 NFL draft in April.

PEOPLE contacted the Doral Police Department for updates in the case, but did not immediately hear back.

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