The NFL Network is reportedly separating from Willie McGinest as he faces up to eight years in prison.
McGinest was hit a charge of assault with a deadly weapon and violent assault, likely resulting in serious bodily harm, following an attack on a West Hollywood restaurant.
The former defense attorney turned himself in to police on December 19 in connection with the attack that took place 10 days earlier. The video appears to show McGinest punching a man in the face and later attacking him with a bottle.
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New England Patriots linebacker Willie McGinest on the sidelines during a game against the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium in Orchard Park, New York December 11, 2005. New England won the game 35-7. (Mark Konezny/NFL PhotoLibrary)
McGinest spent most of his 15-year career in New England, earning two and three Pro Bowl nominations, respectively Super Bowl Championships.
The 51-year-old apologized for the incident shortly afterwards in a lengthy Instagram post.
“First and foremost, I would like to sincerely apologize for my poor judgment and conduct on December 9th at a West Hollywood restaurant.” McGinest wrote on Instagram later this month. “To my family, community, friends and youth I minister to, please know that I feel terrible for my actions and take full responsibility.
New England Patriots Willie McGinest during the first quarter of Super Bowl XXXIX between the Philadelphia Eagles and the New England Patriots at Alltel Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida on February 6, 2005. (Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images)
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“My colleagues at NFL Network and those I work closely with as a consultant to professional and community-based organizations, please know I am embarrassed and sorry for what happened.
“Most of all I am disappointed in myself, knowing that this is an isolated case and does not reflect my faith, my role as a father, my life’s work or the example I have worked hard to be. It is personally devastating that decades of community service, youth engagement, mentoring and professional development would suddenly become an afterthought that should never have happened.
Willie McGinest #55 of the New England Patriots looks on prior to an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins October 10, 2004 at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Mitchell Layton/Getty Images)
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“This incident prompted me to do a deep self-reflection – mind, soul and spirit. I know that violence is never the answer to such situations, no matter how intense the provocation. Rest assured that I will take whatever steps are necessary to restore public trust, mend damaged relationships and ensure nothing like this ever happens again.”
McGinest has been suspended from his role as an analyst at NFL Network pending an investigation.
Source : www.foxnews.com