Bengals running back Joe Mixon was found not guilty Thursday of a misdemeanor charge of aggravated menacing stemming from a January road rage incident.
Mixon’s aggravated menacing charge came after he was alleged to have pointed a gun at a woman, saying, “You should be popped in the face. I should shoot you now. The police can’t get me,” per Fox 19 Now in Cincinnati.
After the trial played out in court over four days, Mixon was found not guilty, but it is unclear whether he will be levied any discipline from the NFL in connection with the personal conduct policy.
In wake of the verdict, the Bengals released a statement on Mixon.
“Since he joined the organization in 2017, Joe Mixon has been a valuable part of the Cincinnati Bengals. Joe has been a top level running back with multiple 1000-yard rushing seasons, and he has been an even better teammate enjoying real popularity among his peers,” the team said. “During the past seven years, Joe has been active with the community, and his constant smile and energy have made him a favorite among thousands of fans. The organization is pleased that this matter is now behind everyone, and we look forward to an exciting season with Joe being an important part of the football team.”
The Bengals running back faces a lawsuit stemming from a separate offseason incident, after a teenage boy was shot in the foot while on property owned by Mixon in March. Lamonte Brewer, the boyfriend of Mixon’s sister, was arrested and charged with felonious assault, having a weapon under disability, tampering with evidence and obstructing justice weeks after the incident.
Mixon agreed to a restructured contract with Cincinnati in July and will make $9.4 million in base salary this season.
Mixon was banged up last season but still played in 14 games, rushing for 814 yards and seven scores. He also caught 60 passes for 441 yards and two additional touchdowns through the air for the Bengals.
