Falcons' James Pearce Jr. charged with 3 felonies, misdemeanor

Pearce allegedly followed and collided with ex-girlfriend Rickea Jackson's vehicle before fleeing police.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 10:36pm

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Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. has been charged with three felonies - aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding police, and resisting an officer with violence - as well as a misdemeanor aggravated stalking charge in relation to an incident involving his ex-girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson. Pearce allegedly followed Jackson's car, collided with it repeatedly, and then fled from police before being arrested.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the serious issue of domestic violence in professional sports and the need for stronger policies and accountability measures to protect victims. It also raises questions about Pearce's future with the Falcons and the NFL's response to the charges.

The details

According to court documents, on February 7th Pearce allegedly followed Jackson's car and repeatedly used his own vehicle to collide with hers as she tried to reach the Doral, Florida police station. After being confronted by an officer, Pearce allegedly fled in his vehicle, leading police on a chase before crashing at an intersection. He then fled on foot before being subdued by officers, and is also accused of resisting arrest.

  • On February 7th, the alleged incident involving Pearce and Jackson occurred.
  • On February 8th, Pearce was released from county jail after posting a $20,500 bond.
  • On February 9th, Jackson filed an injunction for a protective order against Pearce in Miami-Dade County.
  • On April 21st, a permanent injunction hearing is scheduled.

The players

James Pearce Jr.

A 22-year-old edge rusher for the Atlanta Falcons who has been charged with three felonies and a misdemeanor in relation to an incident involving his ex-girlfriend.

Rickea Jackson

A WNBA player for the Los Angeles Sparks who filed an injunction for a protective order against Pearce, stating she feared for her life.

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What they’re saying

“James will kill me.”

— Rickea Jackson (Court filing)

What’s next

The judge will decide on April 21st whether to grant a permanent injunction against Pearce.

The takeaway

This case highlights the urgent need for professional sports leagues to have robust domestic violence policies and enforcement mechanisms to protect victims and hold abusers accountable. It also underscores the broader societal problem of intimate partner violence that requires comprehensive solutions.