Cincinnati Bengals star running back, Joe Mixon, has been acquitted of an aggravated menacing charge. It has cleared his name in the case that drew attention and concern. The Bengals have expressed their happiness after the judgment. The team stood firmly by Mixon throughout the trial, underlining his vital role on the team.
“Joe Mixon has been an integral part of the Cincinnati Bengals since he joined the organization in 2017. He has consistently performed as a top-tier running back…,” the team stated.
The trial revolved around charges stemming from a February 3, 2023 incident. As per reports, Mixon was accused of aggravated menacing after an altercation with a female driver in downtown Cincinnati. Initially, charges were dropped, but the police persisted in their investigation, eventually reinstating the charges on April 7, 2023.
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The alleged victim claimed Joe Mixon cut her off in traffic and proceeded to display a firearm. She claimed that he unleashed a torrent of threats and verbal aggression as well. However, the NFL star opted for a bench trial, entrusting his fate to Judge Gwen Bender.
The proceedings began with testimonies from police officers and eyewitnesses. Ultimately, the judge determined that there was insufficient evidence to prove Joe Mixon had wielded a weapon. So, the judge gave the verdict of not guilty for the charge of aggravated menacing.
Joe Mixon can now focus on representing his team in the upcoming NFL season. The Bengals and their supporters are eagerly anticipating his return to the field.
Joe Mixon is all set to make his NFL comeback with the Cincinnati Bengals
After overcoming his legal hurdles, Joe Mixon is gearing up for a triumphant return to the Cincinnati Bengals. After the ruling, Mixon’s attorney, Peter Schaffer, issued a statement expressing his confidence in the verdict. Schaffer emphasized their belief in the truth and their trust in the legal system’s fairness.
“Knowing the facts, knowing Joe as a person, and having tremendous faith in the legal system’s ability to get to the truth we had no doubt of the eventual outcome. This vindicates Joe as a person and that is what’s most important. Back to the business of football,” he said.
The 27-year-old running back has been actively participating in the Bengals’ training camp this summer. However, the recent trial caused him to miss some team activities. It’s worth noting that Joe Mixon signed a $48 million contract extension with the team for 4 years in 2020.
The Bengals are now eagerly preparing for the new season with their star running back leading the charge. This is like a whole new chance for Joe Mixon and he must make the best out of it in NFL 2023.