SAN DIEGO — District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis on Friday dismissed reality TV star Tila Tequila’s accusations that Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman choked her and threw her to the ground early Sunday while she was trying to leave his suburban home.
Merriman was arrested after Tequila signed a citizen’s arrest warrant accusing Merriman of battery and false imprisonment. Both are felonies.
“After a thorough review of the investigation into the Sept. 6, 2009 incident at the Poway home of Shawne Merriman, our office has determined there is insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that any crime was committed,” Dumanis said. “This case is now closed.”
The Chargers are preparing for their season opener Monday night at Oakland. It will be Merriman’s first game back since having knee surgery after the 2008 season opener.
Seymour given deadline to report
ALAMEDA, Calif. — The Raiders sent defensive lineman Richard Seymour a letter giving him until Tuesday to report to the team or face a possible season-long suspension, The Boston Herald reported.
If Seymour does not report to the Raiders by Tuesday, the team could place him on a suspended list without pay at any time. That would prohibit him from playing for any team this season and roll over his contract for another year. Seymour would then not be eligible for free agency next season. The Raiders would retain his rights in 2010 for $3.7 million.
Footnotes.
A federal appeals court cleared the way for Vikings defensive linemen Pat Williams and Kevin Williams to play all season, despite the NFL’s attempts to suspend them for violating the league’s anti-doping policy. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell said the league was considering its next step, which could include an appeal, a trial in state court or taking the issue to Congress.
• Seahawks receiver Deion Branch (hamstring) is questionable for Sunday’s game against the Rams.
• Eagles starting right tackle Shawn Andrews will miss the season opener against Carolina because of a sore back.
• Saints left tackle Jammal Brown underwent hip surgery and is expected to miss several weeks.
The Associated Press
