Former NFL defensive back Darren Sharper has reportedly reached a plea deal for the various rape charges that have been brought against him.
According to a statement from the New Orleans DA, Sharper is expected to plead guilty to rape charges stemming from incidents that took place in Los Angeles, New Orleans, Las Vegas and the Phoenix area, possibly as early as Monday. The former Pro Bowler has been accused of drugging and sexually assaulting multiple women. Specific details about the plea deal are not specified.
The latest charges that were brought against Sharper were heard in court on Friday. Sharper was charged with drugging and raping two women at a Las Vegas strip hotel. Prosecutors have reportedly uncovered a pattern of “drug-and-attack behavior” from the 39-year-old.
If Sharper went to trial, he would have been facing life in prison. A rape conviction in Louisiana alone could result in a life sentence. The Nevada charges each carry a possible sentence of 10 years to life.
Back in December, we learned that Sharper and other NFL players allegedly attended a convention in Las Vegas and attempted to drug women with spiked beverages.
It’s probably safe to assume that Sharper is facing some serious jail time. He’ll likely avoid life in prison, but I can’t imagine a plea deal will prevent him from spending several years behind bars.
