Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice is facing allegations of domestic violence made by his former girlfriend, Dacoda Nichole Jones.
Allegations Detailed Online
On Wednesday, January 7, Jones posted a series of 14 photos to her Instagram account accompanied by a message beginning with “DOMESTIC AWARENESS WARNING!!” The images depict visible injuries, including bruises, scratch marks, and a broken lip. Additional photos show damage to property inside a home, including a hole in a wall and damage to cabinets and a closet.
While Jones did not explicitly name Rice, 25, in her post, she stated she endured abuse for eight years while living in Kansas and Texas. She wrote that she is “tired of keeping quiet” and “protecting his image,” adding that the pair broke up a couple of months ago and since then, it has been “nothing but hell.”
Jones alleges controlling behavior, including instances of Rice breaking down her door and physically assaulting her while pregnant. She also claims he locked her outside overnight in ten-degree weather after being accused of infidelity.
Concerns for Children Raised
Jones, who shares two children with Rice, alleges he is “not doing right by my boys.” She claims Rice does not call or check on their children and has attempted to remove them from their home. She also alleges multiple instances of infidelity and states Rice did not follow through on a financial agreement to help her relocate with the children from Kansas to Texas.
Jones concluded her post stating she is “done protecting his image” and is now focused on protecting her peace and her children.
Official Responses
The Kansas City Chiefs released a statement on Thursday stating the club is aware of the allegations circulating on social media and is in communication with the National Football League. The Chiefs did not provide further comment.
The NFL also released a statement confirming they are in contact with the club and will review “the matter.” Neither statement specifically named Rice as the subject of the allegations.
In July, Rice was sentenced to 30 days in jail and five years’ probation following a multicar crash in Dallas. He was subsequently suspended by the NFL for six games for violating the league’s personal conduct policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific allegations has Dacoda Nichole Jones made?
Jones alleges eight years of abuse, including physical assault while pregnant, controlling behavior such as breaking down doors, and abandonment of financial responsibilities towards their children. She also alleges infidelity.
What have the Kansas City Chiefs and the NFL said in response?
The Chiefs stated they are aware of the allegations and are in communication with the NFL. The NFL stated they are in contact with the club and will review “the matter.” Neither statement named Rice.
What was Rashee Rice’s previous NFL penalty?
Rice was suspended for six games by the NFL after violating the league’s personal conduct policy following a multicar crash in Dallas, for which he received a 30-day jail sentence and five years’ probation.
How will public perception of athletes influence the handling of these types of allegations moving forward?
Worth a look