Falcons Linebacker Arrested After Series of 911 Calls

Police responded to multiple domestic violence reports involving James Pearce Jr. and his ex-girlfriend before his arrest.

Mar. 10, 2026 at 3:03am

Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr. was arrested and charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and five felony counts of domestic violence against WNBA player Rickea Jackson. Police had responded to at least seven 911 calls from an unidentified woman weeks before Pearce's arrest, reporting that he was harassing and stalking her and had tried to break into her home.

Why it matters

This case highlights the importance of law enforcement taking domestic violence reports seriously and acting quickly to protect victims, even when no immediate physical harm has occurred. It also raises questions about the NFL's personal conduct policy and whether Pearce will face league discipline.

The details

According to reports, the 911 calls came from an unidentified woman who said Pearce was harassing and stalking her. Police responded to calls in November and January, telling Pearce to stay away from his ex-girlfriend's home. On January 28, another woman called police saying she was 'in fear' and that Pearce had damaged her door, but he had left the scene before officers arrived.

  • In November, police responded to a call from a Doral residence by a person whose name has been redacted.
  • On January 13, police told Pearce not to go near his ex-girlfriend's home.
  • On January 28, a woman identified Pearce during a call to the police, saying she was 'in fear'.

The players

James Pearce Jr.

A linebacker for the Atlanta Falcons who was arrested and charged with aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and five felony counts of domestic violence against WNBA player Rickea Jackson.

Rickea Jackson

A WNBA player for the Los Angeles Sparks who was the alleged victim of domestic violence by James Pearce Jr.

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What they’re saying

“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.'”

— Pearce's attorneys

“Jackson is 'willing to testify' if Pearce's case goes to trial.”

— Jackson's representatives

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on whether to allow Pearce to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of law enforcement taking domestic violence reports seriously and acting quickly to protect victims, even when no immediate physical harm has occurred. It also raises questions about the NFL's personal conduct policy and whether Pearce will face league discipline.