NFL footballer Adrian Peterson has avoided jail time for felony child abuse by striking a plea deal in which he will be on probation and subject to drug tests.
Today, the Minnesota Vikings Running Back plead “no contest” to misdemeanor reckless assault in a Texas courtroom. The judge accepted the deal and ordered Peterson to pay a $4,000 fine. He has also been placed on probation and is required to perform 80 hours of community service.
The 29 year old was charged with a felony for disciplining his 4-year-old son with a switch in September. He reportedly hit the toddler with the object repeatedly, leaving bruises and lacerations.
He faced up to two years in prison and a $10,000 fine if convicted of reckless and negligent injury to a child charges. However, misdemeanor reckless assault, the charge Peterson copped to, carries a much lesser punishment. A tentative trial date had been set for Dec. 1, but the plea deal ended the legal process before any trial could occur.
As for when he can return to the NFL, the league is undecided. Peterson, who has been suspended since mid-September, has been paid his full salary, $5.3 million, in his absence.
Do you agree with Adrian Peterson’s plea deal and punishment?