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Falcons Player Charged with Felonies After Alleged Attack on WNBA Star
James Pearce Jr. faces multiple charges including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon after incident with ex-girlfriend Rickea Jackson.
Mar. 13, 2026 at 1:42am
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Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. has been charged with four felonies, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding police, and resisting an officer with violence, following an alleged attack on his ex-girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson. The incident occurred on February 7th in Doral, Florida, where Pearce allegedly followed Jackson's car, rammed it multiple times with his Lamborghini SUV, and then fled from police before crashing and attempting to evade arrest on foot.
Why it matters
This case highlights the serious nature of alleged domestic violence incidents involving professional athletes and raises concerns about player conduct and accountability. It also underscores the potential dangers faced by victims of stalking and abuse, especially high-profile individuals like Jackson.
The details
According to court documents, Pearce, 22, was initially charged with aggravated stalking, a felony, but that charge was later reduced to a misdemeanor. He was also charged with aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, but that charge was dropped. Pearce was released on a $20,500 bond on February 8th. Jackson, 24, who plays for the Los Angeles Sparks, filed for a temporary protective order against Pearce, which was granted, with a permanent injunction hearing set for April 21st.
- On February 7, 2026, the alleged incident occurred in Doral, Florida.
- Pearce was arrested on February 7th and spent the night in a county correctional center.
- Pearce was released on a $20,500 bond on February 8th.
- Jackson filed for a temporary protective order against Pearce on February 9th.
- A permanent injunction hearing is scheduled for April 21, 2026.
The players
James Pearce Jr.
A 22-year-old edge rusher for the Atlanta Falcons who is facing multiple felony charges, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding police, and resisting an officer with violence, following an alleged attack on his ex-girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson.
Rickea Jackson
A 24-year-old WNBA player for the Los Angeles Sparks who filed for a temporary protective order against her ex-boyfriend, James Pearce Jr., after the alleged incident, citing fear for her life.
What they’re saying
“will kill me" and was in 'fear of my life.'”
— Rickea Jackson (ESPN)
What’s next
The judge will decide on April 21st whether to grant a permanent injunction against Pearce, prohibiting him from contacting or approaching Jackson.
The takeaway
This case highlights the serious consequences professional athletes can face for alleged domestic violence incidents and the importance of accountability for player conduct, as well as the need for greater support and protection for victims of stalking and abuse, even those in the public eye.
