Let’s take a quick look at the status of the legal issues facing a couple of persons associated with the Kansas City Chiefs.
As everyone is gearing up for the start of the 2022 Chiefs season (yes, I know a game was played yesterday so the season already started, but the Chiefs haven’t…), a couple of quick updates about where some outstanding issues for some Kansas City Chiefs players and former coaches are important.
Earlier this week it was announced that instead of taking the case to trial, former Chiefs coach Britt Reid intended on accepting a plea deal.
Britt Reid will plead guilty next week on charges of driving while intoxicated in the 2021 accident that left 5 year old Ariel Young seriously injured, his lawyer says. Reid, then an assistant on his father's Kansas City Chiefs staff, is facing a max of 7 years in prison.
— Dan Wetzel (@DanWetzel) September 6, 2022
What does that mean? It typically means that in exchange for a lesser charge or the prosecutor suggesting a shorter sentence, smaller fines, etc., Reid is going to plead guilty. This takes the case out of the hands of the jury and guarantees what his charges will be. A judge is certainly able to reject a plea deal which is incredibly rare.
On Monday, Reid will appear in front of the judge along with the prosecutor and admit to what he did, which we believe is driving under the influence causing extensive injuries and lifelong struggles for Ariel Young. As noted, these charges could come with a maximum sentence of seven years in prison.
Things such as prior charges may influence the judge to impose a tougher sentence while his attorney may present mitigating factors that could lessen the sentence. It is unlikely he is sentenced on Monday. Sentencing could be set for a different day. Regardless, this begins to provide some resolution to a terrible situation.
Additionally, we found out that Frank Clark also had some legal news. Apart from being absent from practice due to an illness on Thursday, Clark was also wrapping up his own issues related to last year’s charges.
Per LA County DA, Chiefs DE Frank Clark pleaded no contest Wednesday to two misdemeanor gun possession charges.
— Tod Palmer (@todpalmer) September 8, 2022
He was sentenced to a year of informal probation and 40 hours of community service, which must be completed by March 29, 2023 (his next court appearance).
Clark, if you recall, was driving around with weapons and facing charges as a result. On Wednesday, Clark did not contest the charges and accepted probation and community service. This is unsurprising as relatively minor charges such as these typically end in probation, fines, and community service. Clark now has to stay out of trouble for one year to avoid additional punishment and do community service.
According to the Kansas City Star, Clark also previously fulfilled a request by the judge to host four free youth football camps. This is another good development because it means Clark will now only be distracted by his frequent illnesses.
Hopefully, this puts to bed the legal troubles for the Chiefs for this year. Now get out there and celebrate this Red Friday and GO CHIEFS!