On February 15, 2014 former Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice was arrested and charged with assaulting his then fiancee Janay Palmer at an Atlantic City casino. Not only was Ray Rice indicted on charges, but also video evidence showing him dragging Palmer out of the elevator was given to TMZ the day after his arrest.
While Rice was not available for comment, his attorney stated that it was a minor physical altercation. His employer, the Ravens, issued a statement that they were aware of the charges and that they condemned domestic violence as an organization, but would allow the legal action to play the course. Given that Ray Rice was considered one of the up and coming stars of the NFL and a vital part of the Raven's future, it is not surprising that the Ravens did not immediately release Rice. Even with the charges pending and more information being revealed that Rice was guilty, the Ravens continued to do nothing.
To make matters worse, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell completely dropped the ball by only suspending Rice for two games on the 2014 season. Ultimately, public outcry forced Goodell to change the NFL's domestic abuse policy and now any player convicted of assault receives an automatic six game suspension while a second offense results in banishment from the league.
On September 8, a new video was released that showed video footage of Ray Rice hitting his girlfriend inside the infamous elevator. Both the NFL and the Ravens have stated that they did not receive a copy of the video; however, a full investigation is ongoing. Since then, Ray Rice has been released from the Ravens and suspended indefinitely by the NFL.
Ultimately, what occurred on the night of February 15 is not an isolated incident. According to an NBC News Report, nearly 20% of men interviewed admitted to having hit, slapped, kicked or abused a female partner. With all eyes on the NFL, the league should have taken this opportunity to stand up against abuse against women; however, the efforts of Goodell fell on deaf ears. Anyone who has been, is or knows an individual who has been the victim of a domestic abuse is encouraged to contact the appropriate authorities immediately. If kids are involved, the Fulton County family services office will offer assistance to all parties involved.
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