Jonathon Cooper Arrested; Broncos OLB Facing Four New Charges

Key Points:

• Jonathon Cooper, Broncos edge rusher, was arrested again and faces new felony and misdemeanor charges including second-degree assault by strangulation, third-degree assault, harassment, and violating a protective order related to an incident with his girlfriend.
• The incident reportedly involved Cooper grabbing his girlfriend by the neck, lifting her against a wall, throwing her to the ground multiple times, and causing serious injuries including hypoxia and a traumatic brain injury.
• A judge increased the protective order requiring Cooper and his girlfriend to maintain a 50-foot distance except at church, and Cooper must sign the order to be released from jail; a motions hearing is scheduled for July 14.
• Cooper’s attorney expressed surprise at the DA’s decision to escalate charges despite police finding no probable cause for assault, while the Broncos stated they are reviewing the matter with disappointment over the arrest.
• Cooper pleaded not guilty to initial charges and apologized publicly; a trial is set for July 22, with the NFL likely to await legal outcomes before deciding on any supplemental discipline, though a six-game suspension appears probable given the severity of allegations.