Michael Turner's DUI Arrest: May Not Be Disciplined Until Legal Process Is Over?
Michael Turner arrested for DUI after 27-21 win over the Denver Broncos. The Atlanta Falcons running back, scored the first touchdown, jumping over a pileup of linemen from both teams in the first quarter of last night's game.
A Gwinnett County police officer pulled over Turner on Interstate 85 for speeding at 97 mph - 32 mph over the speed limit, said police spokesman, Cpl. Edwin Ritter. Reportedly, after being pulled over police suspected that Turner had been drinking and asked him to take a breathalyzer, which then Turner refused. Briefly after, Turner was taken to jail and released two hours later on $2,179 bond.
During last night game Turner, scored his 51st touchdown which was his Franchise record. He joined the Falcons in 2008 as a free agent signing a $34 million contract for six years, making $5 million in base salary in the fifth season. Before the Falcons, Turner played for the San Diego Chargers, who chose the athlete out of Northern Illinois in the fifth round pick of the 2004 NFL Draft.
The Falcons stated that they are, "aware of the situation" and are currently "gathering more information." Falcons head coach Mike Smith told SIRIUS NFL Radio this morning, "We'll keep the communication internal with myself and Michael, and we'll deal with it as it progresses."
Most likely, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell may take disciplinary action once the legal process is over for Turner. In a similar case, Seattle Seahawks running back, Marshawn Lynch's has a DUI case pending that may not see trial until the end of the 2012 season.