WNBA Star Rickea Jackson Willing to Testify in Domestic Violence Case Against Ex-Boyfriend
Los Angeles Sparks basketball star Rickea Jackson has officially declared her readiness to testify against her former boyfriend, James Pearce Jr., the Atlanta Falcons defensive player currently facing serious criminal charges. Pearce was arrested on Saturday following a domestic incident involving Jackson, with charges including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and fleeing from police officers.
Legal Proceedings and Victim's Rights Asserted
Jackson's legal team filed a formal court notice in Miami-Dade County on Tuesday, explicitly stating that the WNBA athlete is 'willing to testify' against Pearce should the domestic violence charges proceed to trial. According to ESPN reports, attorneys Gary F. Celetti and Wendy A.L. Beswick submitted a notice of appearance alongside a notice of victims' rights under Florida's Marsy's Law provisions.
The legal documents request that the court allocate 'all possible resources and personnel' to ensure the case concludes promptly and delivers justice for Jackson and the state of Florida. The filing emphasizes Jackson's statutory rights to receive case updates, attend all public proceedings, and be heard during any public hearings related to the matter.
'The victim is pleading with the Court and the State to conclude this matter promptly without hindering the efficacy of the prosecution's case,' Jackson's attorneys wrote in their submission. They further noted that Jackson retains the right to consult with prosecutors regarding potential plea agreements and to provide information about the impact of Pearce's alleged actions.
Details of the Alleged Incident
According to a Doral Police Department report obtained by ESPN, Jackson and Pearce had recently ended their three-year relationship, with Jackson having blocked Pearce's phone number. Authorities allege that Pearce subsequently sent unwanted text messages from a new phone number before the Saturday morning incident.
Police reports state that Jackson noticed Pearce's Lamborghini SUV following her as she entered her neighborhood around 9:25 AM. When she stopped at a traffic light, Pearce allegedly exited his vehicle and attempted to open her driver's side door. Jackson reportedly sped toward the Doral Police Department headquarters while calling 911, at which point Pearce allegedly rear-ended her vehicle.
As Jackson attempted to evade Pearce, authorities claim he blocked her entrance to the police station. When she reversed to escape, Pearce allegedly 'intentionally collided head-on with her vehicle.' Responding officers reported that one policeman drew his weapon and ordered Pearce to the ground, but Pearce returned to his Lamborghini and fled the scene, allegedly striking an officer's knee during his escape.
After a police pursuit, Pearce eventually crashed near Northwest 102nd Path and 65th Lane before attempting to flee on foot. Officers apprehended him following a brief struggle during which Pearce reportedly resisted arrest by tensing his arms and refusing to comply with officers' commands.
Legal Response and Career Implications
Pearce appeared before a judge during a pre-trial hearing on Sunday, where he was granted a $20,500 bond and ordered to maintain distance from Jackson. His attorney, Jacob Nunez, issued a statement on Monday asserting Pearce's innocence and commitment to cooperating with investigators.
'Mr. Pearce maintains his innocence and urges the public to understand that while allegations have the power to shape a narrative, that it is hardly the full, complete story,' Nunez stated. 'We look forward to vigorously defending our client and remain confident that he will continue contributing positively to both his team and the community he serves so well.'
The incident casts significant uncertainty over Pearce's promising NFL career, coming just three days after he finished third in voting for the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award. The 22-year-old first-round draft pick from Tennessee recorded 17 solo tackles and 10.5 sacks during an impressive debut season with the Atlanta Falcons.
The Falcons organization acknowledged the situation in a Saturday night statement: '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.'
Jackson, who currently plays for the Breeze in the Unrivaled league, was photographed alongside Pearce at last year's NFL Draft. She participated in basketball activities just hours before the alleged incident occurred, demonstrating her continued professional commitment amid the personal and legal challenges.
