Grand Jury Formally Indicts Johnny Manziel On Assault Charge
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DALLAS (CBSDFW/1080 KRLD) - Former Cleveland Browns QB Johnny Manziel has officially been indicted by a Dallas Grand Jury on a charge of assault causing bodily injury.
The indictment says in January of this year, Manziel caused injury to then girlfriend Colleen Crowley by striking her with his hand, and then forcing her into his SUV and forcing her against the dashboard.
The charge is a Class A misdemeanor and carries a maximum sentence of as much as one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
A statement from Dallas Co. District Attorney Susan Hawk read: "The Grand Jury's review of Mr. Manziel's case has resulted in a "true bill", which means that there was probable cause found that Mr. Manziel committed a Family Violence Assault against the complainant. Therefore, this case will move forward in the criminal justice system and be prosecuted by the District Attorney's Office."
The DA's office says a court has to be assigned the case, then a date will be set for Manziel to appear before a judge.
Manziel's attorney said his client intended to make the appearance.
According to police records, Crowley tried to jump out of the moving car and get to safety, but Manziel stopped, dragged her back into the car and hit her.
Instead of arresting Manziel, officials with the Dallas Police Department decided to present evidence to the grand jury to decide if they should pursue a misdemeanor case.
Sources also said there was an out-of-court civil settlement between Manziel and Crowley over the issue. But at this time there isn't any indication what the settlement may be.
A judge granted Crowley a protective order after January's multi-city altercation. Manziel has to stay away from Crowley until at least Feb. 3, 2018, including at least 500 feet away from her Fort Worth apartment, according to the order. He also has to pay $12,500 in attorney's fees and can't possess a firearm while the order is in effect.
Colleen Crowley's Affidavit Requesting A Protective Order
Manziel was cut by the Browns in March after two tumultuous seasons marked by inconsistent play and off-the-field headlines about his partying and drinking.
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