Los Angeles Sparks forward Rickea Jackson has offered to testify against her former boyfriend, Atlanta Falcons rookie James Pearce Jr, who was arrested on Saturday following a domestic incident. Jackson's attorneys filed a court notice in Miami-Dade County stating she is 'willing to testify' if the charges go to trial.
Pearce faces charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and fleeing police. According to a Doral Police Department report, Jackson had recently ended a three-year relationship with Pearce and blocked his number. On Saturday morning, she allegedly noticed Pearce following her in his Lamborghini SUV, and he attempted to open her car door at a red light.
Jackson sped off towards the Doral Police headquarters while calling 911. Police claim Pearce rear-ended her car, then blocked her entrance to the station and intentionally collided head-on with her vehicle as she reversed. Officers reported that Pearce resisted arrest, fled in his car, hit an officer, and after a chase, crashed and tried to run away before being apprehended.
In the court filing, Jackson's attorneys requested the court to dedicate resources to conclude the case 'as soon as practicable' and bring justice. They also noted Jackson's rights under Florida's Marsy's Law, including the right to be notified and heard. Jackson 'remains cooperative and willing to testify at trial, if one is necessary,' the attorneys wrote.
Pearce appeared in court on Sunday and was granted a $20,500 bond, with orders to stay away from Jackson. His attorney, Jacob Nunez, stated that Pearce maintains his innocence and looks forward to defending him. The incident casts doubt on Pearce's NFL future after an impressive rookie season with the Falcons.
