Former Giants linebacker Michael Boley was released this offseason despite the Giants' lack of depth at the position. According to TMZ.com, that was because Boley was arrested for child abuse in February, in an incident that surprisingly flew under the radar.
The TMZ report said that Boley was being investigated for an incident in 2011 involving his then-five-year-old son that was of a physical nature, and not sexual. The report goes on to say that Boley was set to stand in front of a grand jury February, but was able to strike a plea deal. Alabama court officials say he pled guilty to child abuse and was ordered to enroll in a pretrial diversion program. The charges would be dropped once Boley completed the process. The plea agreement also required Boley to turn himself in to authorities and take a mug shot.
Sources familiar with the Giants organization say the Giants were aware of Boley's legal issues and cut him three days before he was set to turn himself in. At the time his release was surprising; Boley had been a very productive player for the Giants dating back to 2009.
In his four-year stint with Big Blue Boley recorded 351 tackles, three interceptions, 16 pass defenses and five fumble recoveries, two of which were returned for touchdowns. He was also a member of the Giants' Super Bowl winning team in 2011.
At the time of his release, the Giants made no indication of legal problems for the linebacker. Giants general manager Jerry Reese praised Boley on his way out, saying, "Michael came in and learned our defense quickly and he added speed, coupled with big-play ability, to our defensive unit. He also played an important role in helping us win Super Bowl XLVI. I wish him well as he moves forward in his career."
Giants head coach Tom Coughlin had similarly kind words in a statement that read, "Michael Boley was brought here as a fast, athletic, versatile linebacker. We recognized his special skills were in coverage. He's a smart player who made some big plays for us. He was an integral part of our Super Bowl XLVI championship team. Michael played outstanding football down the stretch for us that season."
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