It was reported by TMZ Sports on Tuesday that Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown had been involved in a domestic dispute in mid-January, but was not arrested or charged with a crime.
The Hollywood Police Department in Florida confirmed that a report alleging misconduct by Brown had been filed, but they did not provide any additional details.
“Mr. Brown was involved in a domestic dispute. No arrests were made,” a representative of the Hollywood Police Department told TMZ Sports.
Brown’s attorney, Darren Heitner, later released a statement to ESPN denying the allegations, while also taking a shot at media outlets who covered the story.
Statement to ESPN from Antonio Brown's lawyer, Darren Heitner: “The allegations are baseless and false. It’s unfortunate that the media is trying to use distractions like this and prior stories in an effort to tarnish my client’s name and reputation. We have no further comment.”
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) February 5, 2019
The Steelers issued a statement of their own, saying they are aware of the incident and are “still in the process of gathering more information.” They will not issue any additional comments at this time.
While it may be the right step for Brown and his attorney to get out ahead of this story, the shot at journalists seems unnecessary. The media merely reported on what the Hollywood Police Department had already acknowledged and there didn’t appear to be any initial speculation.
The Steelers are expected to consider moving on Brown this offseason.
