Atlanta Falcons DE James Pearce Jr. Arrested on Domestic Violence Charges

Pearce, who is dating WNBA player Rickea Jackson, faces multiple charges including aggravated battery and stalking.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Atlanta Falcons defensive end James Pearce Jr. was arrested on Saturday in Doral, Florida on multiple charges, including two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and fleeing police. The charges stem from a domestic dispute between Pearce and his girlfriend, WNBA standout Rickea Jackson.

Why it matters

Pearce's arrest raises concerns about domestic violence in professional sports and the need for stronger accountability measures. As a high-profile athlete, his actions could have significant consequences for his career and the Falcons organization.

The details

According to reports, police were initially called to the Doral Police Department headquarters for a reported altercation involving Pearce and Jackson. Pearce allegedly fled the scene and later crashed his vehicle while attempting to evade police. Authorities claim Pearce intentionally rammed his Lamborghini into Jackson's car multiple times to prevent her from reaching a police station. He is also accused of intentionally striking a police officer, injuring the officer's knee, during the pursuit.

  • On February 8, 2026, Pearce was arrested in Doral, Florida.

The players

James Pearce Jr.

A 22-year-old defensive end for the Atlanta Falcons who was arrested on multiple charges, including aggravated battery and stalking, following a domestic dispute with his girlfriend.

Rickea Jackson

A WNBA player who was involved in the domestic dispute with her boyfriend, James Pearce Jr.

Doral Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the initial call and arrested Pearce following the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Pearce Jr. allegedly rammed his Lamborghini into Jackson's car several times in an effort to keep her from reaching a police station.”

— Andy Slater (Twitter)

“Pearce Jr. also intentionally drove into a police officer, hitting the cop's knee in an effort to get away, I'm told.”

— Andy Slater (Twitter)

“The Atlanta Falcons linebacker is 'lucky to be alive' after that, a high-ranking police source tells me.”

— Andy Slater (Twitter)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow James Pearce Jr. out on bail.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence in professional sports and the need for stronger accountability measures to address such behavior. As a high-profile athlete, Pearce's actions could have significant consequences for his career and the Falcons organization, underscoring the importance of addressing these issues proactively.