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Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold has been arrested in Florida and charged in connection with an alleged kidnapping and armed robbery that took place in Tampa earlier this year.
Authorities say Arnold, 23, was the "primary conspirator" in what they describe as a targeted revenge crime. The incident followed a burglary at an Airbnb Arnold had rented in Largo, Florida, where more than $250,000 worth of cash and property was stolen.
Investigators say Arnold suspected two of the eventual victims were involved, though police later determined they were not.
According to Tampa Police, Arnold and several co-defendants lured three young men to an apartment on February 4. Once inside, the victims were pistol-whipped, held at gunpoint, and robbed of personal belongings before being ordered to leave. One of the suspects allegedly streamed the assault to Arnold and others, while a group chat was used to coordinate directions during the attack.
Arnold turned himself in on June 24 and now faces four counts of kidnapping and four counts of armed robbery, charges that carry a potential sentence of up to life in prison. He is the seventh person arrested in connection with the case.
Six others: Arianna Del Valle, Jasmine Randazzo, Lyndell Hudson, Christion Williams, Boakai Hilton, and Freddie Hughes, were previously taken into custody. Randazzo has already been sentenced to four years in prison, while Del Valle entered a plea deal and will testify in future proceedings.
Arnold's representatives strongly deny his involvement. Denise White, CEO of EAG Sports Management, said in a statement: "There is no credible evidence linking Mr. Arnold to these allegations. Instead, the government appears to be relying on testimony from multiple convicted felons who have admitted their own involvement and may have substantial incentives to shift blame in an effort to lessen their sentences."
Arnold's attorney, R. Timothy Jansen, also insisted his client had "no involvement whatsoever" and was not present during the alleged crimes.
The Detroit Lions acknowledged the arrest in a brief statement: "We are aware of the legal situation regarding Terrion Arnold. We will not comment at this time out of respect for the ongoing legal process."
He is currently being held without bond and is scheduled to make his first court appearance in Hillsborough County.
