Seattle, Washington – Former NFL offensive linesman Chad Wheeler has been sentenced to spend 81 months behind bars for a brutal attack on his girlfriend in November 2021. The sentence was issued on Friday, March 1, following Wheeler’s guilty plea to one count of first-degree assault domestic violence.
Wheeler, who previously played for the New York Giants, was banned from any contact with the victim and ordered to pay immediate restitution. The assault, which left the victim with serious injuries including a concussion and the need for metal instruments to maintain motion in her arm, occurred after she refused Wheeler’s order to bow.
Despite Wheeler’s once-promising career in the NFL, which included stints with both the Giants and the Seattle Seahawks, his actions on that fateful night led to his downfall. His decision to engage in violence against his girlfriend ultimately resulted in a lengthy prison sentence and tarnished his reputation in the sports world.
The victim’s call for justice, echoed by many who supported her through the legal process, highlights the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, especially in cases of domestic violence. Wheeler’s fall from grace serves as a cautionary tale for other professional athletes and public figures who may find themselves involved in similar situations.
Throughout his football career, Wheeler faced challenges including overcoming serious injuries in college and struggling to make a lasting impact in the NFL. Despite his physical attributes and potential, his violent actions off the field ultimately overshadowed any success he may have achieved on the gridiron.
As Wheeler begins his prison term, the focus shifts towards supporting the victim’s recovery and advocating for stricter penalties against domestic abusers. The case serves as a reminder of the ongoing issue of domestic violence in society and the importance of seeking justice for survivors who have endured such traumatic experiences.