Falcons' James Pearce Charged After Alleged Domestic Violence Incidents

Police were called multiple times on Pearce before he allegedly rammed into WNBA player's car

Mar. 10, 2026 at 2:03am

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In the months before his February 7th arrest, police had been called at least seven times by James Pearce Jr.'s unidentified girlfriend over fears that she was being harassed and stalked by the Falcons linebacker. The incidents escalated in January, with concerns that Pearce was trying to break into the woman's home. On February 7th, Pearce allegedly used his vehicle to strike the woman's car multiple times, leading to his arrest on felony battery and stalking charges.

Why it matters

The case highlights a concerning pattern of alleged domestic violence and stalking behavior by an NFL player, raising questions about player conduct policies and the league's response to such incidents. It also underscores the broader issue of domestic violence in professional sports and the need for stronger accountability and support systems.

The details

According to police reports obtained by ESPN, the incidents involving Pearce and his unidentified girlfriend began in late November 2025 with a domestic disturbance call, where the woman said Pearce had been knocking on her door and calling her landline. The incidents escalated in January, with the woman telling police that Pearce had damaged the front door of her home and she had to go to a hotel to 'avoid further incidents'. On February 7th, Pearce allegedly used his vehicle to strike the woman's car multiple times, leading to his arrest on felony battery and stalking charges.

  • On November 24, 2025, police responded to a domestic disturbance call around 11 p.m. after Pearce had allegedly been knocking on the woman's door and calling her landline.
  • On November 25, 2025, police were called again after the woman became concerned that Pearce was 'likely going to return to her residence'.
  • On January 13, 2026, police 'advised' Pearce 'not to return to the residence' after being called to a domestic disturbance incident.
  • On January 28, 2026, police responded to the woman's residence after she was 'in fear' that Pearce had damaged the front door of her home.
  • On February 7, 2026, Pearce allegedly used his vehicle to strike the woman's car multiple times, leading to his arrest.

The players

James Pearce Jr.

A linebacker for the Atlanta Falcons who was arrested on felony battery and stalking charges after allegedly using his vehicle to strike his ex-girlfriend's car multiple times.

Rickea Jackson

A WNBA player who was the victim of the alleged vehicular attack by Pearce on February 7, 2026.

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What they’re saying

“We look forward to working with the State Attorney's Office in fully investigating this case and uncovering the truth. Mr. Pearce maintains his innocence and urges the public to understand that while allegations have the power to shape a narrative, that it is hardly the full, complete story.”

— Jacob Nunez, Yale Sanford and Joshua Cohen, Pearce's legal team

What’s next

Pearce is scheduled to appear in court on March 15, 2026, where a judge will determine if he will be allowed out on bail pending the outcome of the case.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger accountability and support systems within the NFL to address domestic violence and stalking allegations against players. It also underscores the broader societal issue of intimate partner violence and the importance of early intervention and prevention efforts.