Explosive news dropped on Wednesday evening, as initially reported by Detroit Lions beat writer Dave Birkett of The Detroit Free Press. Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold was arrested on multiple felony charges, and potentially faces life in prison if convicted.
The news comes after the Lions recently wrapped up their offseason workout program and just over a month away from the start of Training Camp.
The Lions have released a short statement detailing they’re aware of what is happening, but will refrain from commenting further.
The arrest stems from an alleged armed robbery and kidnapping plot from earlier this year; Arnold’s name was mentioned in court documents, but he denied any involvement.
“We are aware of the legal situation regarding Terrion Arnold,” their statement read. “We will not comment at this time out of respect for the ongoing legal process.”
Detroit Lions Cornerback Terrion Arnold Is Facing Serious Charges With Potential For Life In Prison
According to the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office, charges will soon be filed against Arnold, and he faces a potential life in prison sentence if convicted.
“The State Attorney’s Office will file charges against Detroit Lions player Terrion Arnold following the arrest in connection with a February robbery and kidnapping plot in Tampa,” their statement read. “Arnold is facing multiple felony charges which carry a potential sentence of up to life in prison.”
Additionally, according to an official press release from Tampa Police, Arnold is believed to be the primary conspirator.
“Investigators believe, based on evidence gathered, that Arnold was the primary conspirator,” the press release reads. “Arnold turned himself in and was taken into custody at Orient Road Jail in Hillsborough County on Wednesday night. He is facing 4 counts of kidnapping and 4 counts of armed robbery.”
State attorney Suzy Lopez released the following statement:
“No one has the right to take the law into their own hands. A dispute over missing property does not justify kidnapping, violence, or retaliation. This arrest is the result of months of investigative work and collaboration between the Tampa Police Department and our prosecutors. We will continue to pursue justice for the three victims by holding everyone accountable for their roles in this crime”
Terrion Arnold Had Been Challenged To Earn His Roster Role
Arnold, who is now obviously unavailable to the Lions, had been directly challenged by head coach Dan Campell to earn his roster spot heading into what would have been his third season in the NFL.
“It’s just about competing. We’ve got a lot of good guys in that room. And he knows this. He’s got to go earn it,” Campbell said.
“He took some stuff on the first field earlier, the first week, the first couple of days. And then we mixed it up. So, the most important thing for him is just making sure that he’s healthy. That’s step one. The rehab, which he’s done a good job with. He’s getting better.
Detroit Lions Break Silence On Terrion Arnold’s Arrest On Multiple Felony Charges