Archives for April 2009

‘Buffalo Bills defensive back and former Ohio State star Donte Whitner was charged today with aggravated disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.’

‘Citing “challenging economic times,” organizers said Monday that ticket prices have been reduced by an average of 17 per cent, with 36,000 seats selling for less than they did last year.’

‘Ticket prices to see the Buffalo Bills in Toronto have been dropped by an average of 17 per cent for this coming season, including more than 11,000 seats that will be available at less than $100.’

‘Whitner, on the other hand, made a choice, and a bad one even if it turns out he sues and wins. It simply isn’t a good choice to confront, in any way, an agitated or otherwise "busy" police officer when his or her attention is focused on a potentially dangerous situation. This was a CHOICE, and not a mistake, and because of that, the only way Whitner begins to repair the damage to his reputation is to be accountable. Did the police overreact with the Taser? Possibly. Did Whitner’s actions, which his statement seems to admit, contribute to what happened? Uh huh.’

‘Tickets may be purchased online through profootballhof.com or by calling 800-913-9788 beginning at 11:00 a.m. ET on Tuesday, April 14, 2009.’

‘Police will discuss the case with a prosecutor during the next couple of days to determine if charges of aggravated disorderly conduct and resisting arrest should be lodged against Whitner, said Lt. Thomas Stacho of the Cleveland Division of Police. If so, “a summons will be sent to Mr. Whitner, and he’ll have to make an appearance in court,” Stacho said.’

‘Coming on top of the Lynch suspension, it makes them appear like a team with a behavior problem. Maybe it’s unfair, but if players keep getting arrested outside bars in the early morning hours – or in Lynch’s case, with marijuana and an unlicensed gun – you can’t cry about bad PR. Wasn’t it Terrell Owens who was going to be the distraction?’

‘Parrish has been a very good punt returner, but he could also be an even more productive offensive weapon if used properly. A team trading for him probably would make better use of him than Buffalo has.’

‘”I regret the incident that occurred last evening,” Whitner said in a statement. “It’s not how I wish to conduct myself. And I apologize to all those involved.”‘

‘…these were supposed to be Marv Levy’s players of "high character." Instead they’re words that more and more ring hollow.’

‘While walking out of jail, Whitner told 19 Action News reporter Myrt Price that “nothing really happened” and “I’m innocent.” When asked if the tasering was necessary, Whitner said “absolutely not.” Whitner also said “I’m filing a lawsuit today against the police department” when he enter the elevator to leave Cleveland City Jail.’

‘Every time a Bills player has a brush with the law, it’s another black eye for the team. But in this case, fans don’t seem to be rushing to judgment.’

‘A prosecutor was to decide whether to file charges.’

‘The arrest of Whitner is by far the most surprising and troubling. While he did have a legal issue involving some form of domestic dispute three years ago, Whitner has been one of the faces of the this franchise since his rookie season. He has taken it upon himself to help lead the team’s young players. While he remains innocent until proven guilty, the fact that Whitner was in this position in the first place is something that has to cause great concern for Bills management.’

‘”We are aware of the report. At the present time we are attempting to gather all of the facts and will defer comment until that process is completed."’