The Cincinnati Bengals are notorious for creating unflattering headlines and the team is at it again. Running back Cedric Benson received a three-game suspension by the NFL related to his criminal plea during the summer when he served a few days in jail prior to the beginning of the 2011 season.
Another offensive player, wide receiver Jerome Simpson, was detained by police this week after a woman at his Kentucky home signed for a package that contained 2.5 pounds of marijuana.
Photo/Denver Jeffrey
When police searched Simpson’s home they found another package with six more pounds of the herb. Another Bengals player, tackle Anthony Collins was in the Simpson home at the time.
These latest events add to the long list of Bengals run-ins with the law.
Regarding Benson, the league decided that despite a lock-out, active players who acted up during the labor strife will be punished and with not just a slap on the wrist.
Insiders have said that Benson will appeal the suspension and play this Sunday’s game against 49ers; that according to Mike Florio of Profootballtalk.com.
If the suspension survives the appeal then Benson will miss the games against the Bills, Jaguars and Colts. Meanwhile, Simpson was detained but not arrested. According to the Associated Press report on the incident, the matter is now in the hands of the Kenyon County prosecutor’s office.
Simpson was excused from practice on Thursday and coach Marvin Lewis told the media that his wideout is cooperating with authorities.
Used with permission of the author.
Paula Duffy is a national sports columnist for Examiner.com and the Huffington Post and regularly comments on sports/legal matters for radio affiliates of ESPN and Fox Sports. She founded the sports information site, Incidental Contact, is the author of a line of audio books designed for sports novices and in her spare time practices law in Los Angeles.
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