The first-time offender defense is becoming like a get-out-of-jail-free card.
NFL monitors investigation of Ray Rice to determine whether to suspend him
Three weeks after Heisman Trophy winner Jameis Winston successfully removed a shoplifting citation off his record when he entered a pre-trial diversion program, Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice has entered a diversionary program that could allow him to clear an aggravated assault charge.
The Baltimore Sun reported Tuesday that Rice requested and received entry into a pretrial intervention program for first-time offenders.
Prosecutors told the Sun they agreed to Rice's inclusion in the program, allowing him to avoid going to trial.
"After considering all relevant information in light of applicable law it was determined this was the appropriate disposition," acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain said in a statement.
Jimbo Fisher won't punish Jameis Winston for shoplifting citation
Rice was facing a third-degree aggravated assault charge on his now-wife Janay Palmer, stemming from an altercation over Valentine's Day weekend, in which both he and Palmer initially faced simple assault charges.
But a surveillance video of an elevator at the Revel Hotel and Casino found its way onto the TMZ Sports website that showed a horrific scene in which Rice was seen dragging a limp Palmer out of the elevator and onto to the floor.
The video went viral, causing prosecutors to indict Rice on a more serious charge.
It's that video that could still result in the NFL handing down a suspension to Rice, despite the charge going off his record if he completes the parameter of the program, the Sun reports. Rice is subject to the parameters of the NFL's personnel-conduct policy.
"I think the problem that Ray Rice has is the video and that created such a public outrage," said David Cornwell, an Atlanta-based lawyer who doesn't represent Rice, to the Sun. "He has no other prior incidents and, all things being equal, he probably would be looking at a fine from the NFL under normal circumstances. The video makes it a little more complicated.
"That's what could get it out of the fine range and into a suspension because the league will respond to the unique aspect of the video and the fact that there's a female involved."
The Sun cited prior cases for first-time domestic-violence offenders among the Ravens - cornerback Cary Williams was suspended two games during the 2010 season, and cornerback Fabian Washington was suspended one game.
Winston took $32 of seafood out of a grocery store in Tallahassee, Fla., without paying, received the shoplifting charge and had the citation wiped from his record after entering the pre-trial diversion, which consisted of 20 hours of community service.
Rice will participate in his pre-trial intervention program for a year, must avoid trouble and continue to attend family counseling with his wife.
Do you think Ray Rice's punishment was just or is he getting off like Jameis Winston did? Comment below or tell us @SportsWN.
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