Former NFL offensive lineman Chad Wheeler has been found guilty of domestic violence after a horrifying attack on his girlfriend in 2021. A jury in King County, Washington, rendered the verdict on Thursday, convicting Wheeler of first-degree and second-degree domestic violence charges. The jury did, however, find him not guilty of unlawful imprisonment.
Key Takeaway
Chad Wheeler, former NFL player, is found guilty of domestic violence charges after a violent attack on his girlfriend. Sentencing is set for December 14th.
As a result of the guilty verdict, Wheeler was immediately remanded into custody, and his sentencing is scheduled for December 14th. The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office can now pursue a mandatory minimum sentence of five years for the first-degree charge, as Wheeler’s actions were deemed to have used force that could have resulted in death. Furthermore, they have the option to seek a sentence above the standard range for the second-degree charge.
This case comes nearly three years after Wheeler’s girlfriend, Alleah Taylor, suffered severe injuries during the incident at their Washington apartment on January 22, 2021. Taylor claimed that Wheeler, whom she had been dating for six months, demanded her submission and, when she refused, brutally attacked and choked her.
Taylor endured a concussion and arm injuries that required surgical intervention, including the insertion of bolts and a steel plate. Following the jury’s ruling, she expressed relief and posted a statement, saying, “I finally have justice.”
In his defense, Wheeler, who briefly played for the New York Giants and the Seattle Seahawks, initially attributed the attack to a manic episode and pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The conviction of Chad Wheeler serves as a reminder of the significant consequences and legal ramifications of domestic violence. This case has highlighted the need for continued efforts to address and prevent such heinous acts, emphasizing the importance of supporting victims and holding perpetrators accountable.
