Sullinger Apologizes For 'Sorrow And Embarrassment' Brought On By Arrest
BOSTON (CBS) - The Boston Celtics and Jared Sullinger each released statements Tuesday afternoon following the forward's arrest for assault and battery.
"The Celtics were disappointed to learn of the allegations against Jared and are currently gathering more information on the situation, which we are taking very seriously," the team said in their release. "We will reserve further comment until such point that we have sufficient additional information."
Sullinger apologized to his girlfriend, family and team in his statement, calling the incident "humbling and embarrassing."
"I voluntarily reported to the Waltham police this morning to respond to charges against me. The experience was humbling and embarrassing for me," said Sullinger. "Yet I know that this situation has brought both sorrow and embarrassment to my girlfriend, my family, the Boston Celtics organization, my teammates, and my fans. To all of you, I apologize from the bottom of my heart."
"My lawyers have advised me not to discuss the case at this time. But I wanted to immediately and publicly apologize to everyone affected by this situation," he said.
The 21-year-old Sullinger posted $5,000 bail after his arraignment in Waltham District Court on Tuesday morning.
Prosecutors say he and his girlfriend had an argument Saturday morning at their Waltham home after she found evidence on his cell phone that he was cheating on her. She began to pack her bags when Sullinger pushed her onto a bed, pinned her, then tossed her onto the ground. He then allegedly shoved her again and smashed her cell phone, according to investigators.
Sullinger, Boston's first-round pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, has been ordered to stay away from the alleged victim, who he has been dating for about two-and-a-half years since they met in college. He is allowed to call her, and can only see her with a third person.
As a rookie, Sullinger averaged 6.0 points and 5.9 rebounds for Boston in 45 games before undergoing season-ending back surgery.
