Marcellus Wiley will not face domestic battery charges. Florida prosecutors will not charge the former NFL star and broadcaster following his arrest in July.
What We Know: According to reports, prosecutors dropped the case Monday. Police arrested Wiley on July 4 in Orlando on one count of domestic battery after his wife accused him of poking her face and threatening her life. He posted bond and left custody the next day. Investigators later said testimonial evidence lacked corroboration, and thus charges are officially dropped. Wiley responded in a video posted Tuesday where he discussed the latest.
What They Said: Marcellus Wiley (via YouTube): “I am forced at 51 years young to be in a fight. A fight for my name, my children’s future. Protecting their hero in their mind, because the internet is forever. I’m also in a fight for legacy which matters most to me. Legacy to me is not my name on the building. It’s that voice inside my kids’ head, inside of all four of my kids’ heads.”
Marcellus Wiley: “I’m fighting for Annemarie [ex-wife] in the respect that she gave me three beautiful blessings and I would never hate her. But I think that’s part of the problem. We live in a world today where everyone knows the thin line between love and hate. I don’t have hate in my heart. I don’t. But I have a lot of apathy.”
What Remains Unclear: Multiple other women have accused Wiley of sexual assault in civil suits previously. It’s unclear how those cases will proceed. Wiley has denied all charges.
What It Means: Wiley’s name has been cleared in this recent and very public incident. However, the court of public opinion remains. Wiley even notes that his fight still continues. That’s a state of reality he’s looking towards facing head on. His transparency during the ordeal was somewhat stunning because of the allegations presented. However, civil litigation and family court matters continue. Still, the dropped charges mark a legal win amid ongoing allegations.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.