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Amid public outrcry that the NFL has turned a blind eye to domestic violence, the Panthers de-activated defensive end Greg Hardy, who was convicted by a judge of assaulting his ex-girlfriend.
Here’s what you need to know:
1. Hardy Deactivated
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Hardy who played last week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and practiced all week with the Panthers, was placed on the inactive list for today’s game against the Detroit Lions, in Carolina’s home opener.
The Panthers will not suspend Hardy until they have more information and will gather more information regarding the incident.
2. He Was Convicted by a Judge but is Awaiting a Jury Trial.
Panthers' Greg Hardy, who's currently appealing a domestic violence conviction, won't play against the Lions today: http://t.co/MNNQ1V6Veo
— ABC News (@ABC) September 14, 2014
Hardy was convicted on July 15th of assault on a female and on communicating threats. Hardy is currently appealing the ruling.
3. Owner Jerry Richardson Broke Down Discussing This Case
In a press conference, owner of the Panthers Jerry Richardson, broke down in tears when addressing domestic violence.
4. 55.4 Percent of NFL Arrests are Domestic Abuse Related
According to 538, who have tracked the numbers relating to arrests in the NFL, 55.4% of the arrests in the National Football League come from domestic abuse, the highest rate of arrest in the NFL.
5. Hardy Received No Punishment From the NFL
DE Greg Hardy among #Panthers inactives for home opener vs. Detroit: http://t.co/C2rK4Tbj3X
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) September 14, 2014
While there is no video evidence of Hardy’s assault, unlike the Ray Rice case, he was convicted by a court back in July and the NFL took no action against him.
