Jets rookie defensive lineman Kenrick Ellis is in a legal mess that could result in his deportation. Rich Cimini reports (via Evan Silva) that the third-round pick out of Hampton is not a U.S. Citizen, therefore his malicious wounding for allegedly attacking another student could result in his deportation. According to immigration law, a permanent resident (which Ellis is) convicted of an aggravated felony is deportable.
Ellis was indicted a month before the draft and faces up to 20 years in prison. Cimini says “Ellis’ best move is to negotiate a plea bargain before he gets to court. The key is to make sure that any plea arrangement isn’t classified as an aggravated assault and carries less than a one-year sentence, suspended or otherwise.”
In the meantime, Ellis received continuance for his trial which was rescheduled for late November. His attorney is likely to request another continuance so this won’t be dealt with until after the NFL season is over.
If there’s anything history has shown us, it’s that the courts tend to show athletes leniency. My guess is Ellis will plead guilty to lesser charges and avoid deportation.
Gavel knock to Pro Football Talk for the story
