Matt Patricia won’t face NFL discipline for 1996 assault allegation
Neither the Detroit Lions nor head coach Matt Patricia will face discipline with regard to a 1996 sexual assault allegation that resurfaced earlier this month, according to ESPN.
Patricia and a friend of his were indicted 22 years ago by a Texas grand jury on one count each of aggravated sexual assault for an alleged incident involving a woman on South Padre Island. The accuser did not testify and the case was dismissed after 10 months.
Patricia, the former Patriots defensive coordinator, maintained his innocence when he spoke at a May 10 press conference in Detroit shortly after details of the case resurfaced.
“I’m here to defend my honor and clear my name,’’ said Patricia. “I find it unfair and upsetting that someone would bring this claim up over two decades later for the sole purpose of hurting my family, my friends, and this organization, with the intention of trying to damage my character and credibility.
“I was innocent then, and I am innocent now. I was falsely accused of something I didn’t do.’’
Patriots coach Bill Belichick released a statement saying the team was unaware of the matter, and vouched for Patricia’s integrity and character.
