Falcons rookie Pearce Jr. faces five felonies after Miami arrest, denies guilt

Falcons rookie James Pearce Jr. is facing five felony charges after a Miami-area arrest stemming from a domestic dispute with WNBA player Rickea Jackson. Police say he fled, intentionally struck a police officer’s knee with his Lamborghini to evade arrest, wrecked the car, and was restrained after a short struggle. The charges include two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated stalking; Pearce posted a $20,500 bond. His attorney says Pearce maintains innocence while the Falcons say they are gathering more information and will comment further when appropriate.