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Doral Today
By the People, for the People
Falcons Player Charged with Domestic Violence, Ex-Girlfriend Offers to Testify
Rickea Jackson files notice to testify against James Pearce Jr. as felony charges and disturbing details unfold in Florida.
Published on Feb. 11, 2026
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Rickea Jackson, a WNBA player, has filed a notice stating that she is willing to testify against Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman James Pearce Jr. if the domestic violence charges against him proceed to trial. Pearce faces five felony charges, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated stalking, following his arrest on Saturday. According to the arrest affidavit, Jackson alleged that Pearce followed her in his vehicle, struck her car from behind, and later hit it head-on as she drove toward the police department.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence in professional sports and the importance of holding athletes accountable for their actions. It also underscores the need for stronger policies and support systems to protect victims and ensure their rights are protected throughout the legal process.
The details
Pearce faces five felony charges, including two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and fleeing or eluding law enforcement with lights and siren. Jackson reported that Pearce followed her in his vehicle, struck her car from behind, and later hit it head-on as she drove toward the police department. Investigators noted that the damage to her vehicle was consistent with her account. When officers arrived, Pearce allegedly reentered his car, struck an officer, and fled the scene before crashing and attempting to flee on foot.
- On Saturday, Pearce was arrested and charged with the five felonies.
- On Tuesday, Jackson's attorneys submitted a notice stating that she is willing to testify if the case proceeds to trial.
The players
Rickea Jackson
A WNBA player who recently ended a three-year relationship with James Pearce Jr. and has filed a notice to testify against him.
James Pearce Jr.
An Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman who was arrested on Saturday and faces five felony charges, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated stalking, following a domestic violence incident involving his ex-girlfriend, Rickea Jackson.
What they’re saying
“Rickea Jackson remains cooperative and willing to testify at trial, if one is necessary.”
— Gary F. Celetti and Wendy A.L. Beswick, Jackson's legal team (ESPN)
“James Pearce Jr. maintains his innocence and the full, completely story has not yet come to light.”
— Jacob Nunez, Yale Sanford and Joshua Cohen, Pearce's attorneys (ESPN)
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 case highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence in professional sports and the importance of holding athletes accountable for their actions. It also underscores the need for stronger policies and support systems to protect victims and ensure their rights are protected throughout the legal process.
