Just two years after achieving his dream of entering the NFL, Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold could have his football career (and freedom) snatched away.
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Arnold was arrested on four counts of kidnapping and four counts of armed robbery on Wednesday, June 24. His arrest came hours after two defendants agreed to plea deals in a kidnapping and assault case they are alleged to have committed on Arnold's behalf.
The former Alabama standout voluntarily surrendered to authorities in Florida after facing an arrest warrant in connection with a robbery and kidnapping in Tampa, according to the Florida state attorney's office in Hillsborough County.
In a press release on Wednesday, the Florida state attorney's office announced Arnold will face "multiple felony charges which carry a potential sentence of up to life in prison."
"Arnold is accused of coordinating and directing codefendants to lure three men to an apartment where the victims were robbed, beaten, and held at gunpoint," the press release states.
According to the release, Arnold orchestrated the attack as a form of retaliation. The Lions' defensive back previously reported to the Largo Police Department that $200,000 in "personal items" were stolen from an Airbnb that he owned.
Hours later, Arnold began plotting revenge, according to an investigation cited in the press release from the state attorney's office.
Terrion Arnold Denies Involvement in Kidnapping Case
Arnold previously denied any involvement in the case, and his representation said in a statement Wednesday, "There is no credible evidence linking Mr. Arnold to these allegations."
"There is no credible evidence linking Mr. Arnold to these allegations," Denise White, CEO of EAG Sports Management, said in a statement. "Instead, the government appears to be relying on testimony from multiple convicted felons. Who have admitted their own involvement and may have substantial incentives to shift blame in an effort to lessen their sentences.
"Mr. Arnold looks forward to his day in court and is confident that the judicial process will lead to his ultimate vindication."
