Former NFL player and broadcaster Marcellus Wiley is currently being held without bond following his arrest by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office on charges of domestic battery. The arrest, which court records indicate occurred on the Fourth of July, follows a series of public sexual assault allegations made against the 51-year-old former athlete by multiple women.
Why was Marcellus Wiley arrested?
According to court records, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office took Wiley into custody on Saturday on charges of domestic battery. Authorities have not released additional details regarding the arrest. Wiley remains in custody without bond.
What are the recent sexual assault allegations?
The arrest follows a Rolling Stone report detailing accusations of sexual assault from four women. These claims include incidents allegedly occurring between 1995 and 1999, as well as an account from a woman who used to be a production assistant at ESPN who alleges Wiley assaulted her in a hotel room in 2009 under the guise of a work meeting.
One accuser alleges that Wiley groomed her beginning at age 13 and raped her when she was 18. “Marcellus Wiley raped me on my 18th birthday, after grooming me from the age of 13,” the accuser stated in a court filing. She further claimed that Wiley referred to her as “little momma” during that time.
Marcellus Wiley was the 52nd overall pick in the 1997 NFL Draft out of Columbia. He played for the Buffalo Bills, San Diego Chargers, Dallas Cowboys, and Jacksonville Jaguars before his playing career came to an end after the 2006 season.
How has Wiley responded to previous accusations?
Prior to the recent arrest, Wiley faced lawsuits from three women alleging rape during his time at Columbia. Wiley denied these claims on his podcast, More To It with Marcellus Wiley, describing the allegations as “B.S.” and claiming he possessed evidence to disprove what he termed “alleged misrepresentations.”
What is the professional background of the accused?
Wiley’s career spans both professional football and sports broadcasting. After an NFL career that included a 2001 Pro Bowl selection while playing for the San Diego Chargers, he transitioned into media. He has served as a broadcaster for both ESPN and FOX Sports. His wife, Annemarie Wiley, used to star on Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Marcellus Wiley currently in jail? Yes, court records show he is being held without bond following his arrest for domestic battery.
- What are the specific charges against Wiley? He is charged with domestic battery.
- Has Wiley addressed the allegations? He has previously denied sexual assault allegations related to his time at Columbia via his podcast.
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