Shawne Merriman Arrested
September 6, 2009 by David Kindervater
Filed under San Diego Chargers
San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman was arrested this morning and accused of choking his girlfriend (a reality TV “star” on some MTV show) Tila Nguyen (aka Tila Tequila), as she tried to leave his suburban home. Tila signed a citizen’s arrest warrant charging Shawne with battery and false imprisonment. Shawne, on the other hand, was taken into custody and booked and then later released. It was not known whether he posted bail or was released on his own recognizance. Police determined that Tila had been drinking and it’s likely Shawne will say he was trying to prevent her from driving in that condition as she attempted to leave her home.
Shawne Merriman, San Diego Chargers / Image: Zuma Press
Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith released the following generic statement today:
“It’s disappointing to hear about the issue involving Shawne Merriman. We’ll continue to monitor the situation and let the legal process run its course.”
In turn, Shawne released his own, more thorough, statement:
“On September 6, 2009 the San Diego Sheriff’s Department responded to a citizen’s complaint that was initiated by Tila Nguyen (aka Tila Tequila). I was taken into custody based upon that complaint. At the time, I was concerned about her welfare given the intoxicated state she appeared to be in and I encouraged her to stay until safe transportation could be provided. We would all do our best to help a friend if we considered their actions to be detrimental to their personal safety. I in no way caused any harm to Ms. Nguyen, however, paramedics were called and she was examined but no injuries were reported. She was released and has since returned to Los Angeles, California. There have been no charges filed against me. I want to thank the San Diego Sheriff’s Department for their professionalism. I will continue to cooperate fully with the Department, and I look forward to clearing my name regarding these false allegations. I want to put this behind me so I can continue to focus on a successful season for the San Diego Chargers.”
Sources: NFL.com, FoxSports.com
