Falcons DE James Pearce Jr. Facing 5 Felony Charges After Domestic Incident

Pearce accused of crashing car into WNBA player Rickea Jackson's vehicle multiple times

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. is facing five felony charges, including aggravated battery, after an alleged domestic violence incident with WNBA star Rickea Jackson in Miami. Pearce is being held in jail on a $20,500 bond and has been issued a pretrial stay-away order from Jackson.

Why it matters

Domestic violence incidents involving professional athletes have come under increased scrutiny in recent years, with leagues and teams facing pressure to address such issues. This case raises concerns about player conduct and accountability, as well as the broader societal problem of domestic abuse.

The details

According to reports, Pearce allegedly crashed his Lamborghini into Jackson's car multiple times during the incident. He is also accused of hitting a police officer with his car. Pearce was arrested and charged with five felonies, including aggravated battery.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday night in Miami.

The players

James Pearce Jr.

A 22-year-old edge rusher for the Atlanta Falcons who was arrested and charged with five felonies following a domestic violence incident with WNBA player Rickea Jackson.

Rickea Jackson

A WNBA player for the Los Angeles Sparks who was involved in the domestic violence incident with Falcons player James Pearce Jr.

Miami-Dade County Police Department

The law enforcement agency that arrested Pearce and is holding him in jail on a $20,500 bond.

Atlanta Falcons

The NFL team that drafted Pearce in the first round in 2025 and has issued a statement regarding the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Falcons DE James Pearce Jr. is facing 5 felony charges and is being held in Miami-Dade County on $20,500 bond. He has been assigned to the felony domestic crimes intake unit and issued a pretrial stay-away order involving WNBA player Rickea Jackson.”

— Ari Meirov, Reporter (The 33rd Team)

“We are aware of an incident involving James Pearce Jr., in Miami. We are in the process of gathering more information and will not have any further comment on an open legal matter at this time.”

— Garrett Chapman, Reporter (Falcons SI)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Pearce Jr. to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing issue of domestic violence involving professional athletes and the need for stronger accountability and support systems to address such incidents. It also raises questions about player conduct and the responsibility of teams and leagues to uphold high standards of behavior.