Crime & Safety

Former Rutgers Star Ray Rice Admitted to Pre-Trial Intervention Program

Rice was accepted into the program after pleading not guilty to a domestic incident with his then-fiancee in Atlantic City in February.

Former Rutgers University football player and Super Bowl champion Ray Rice has been approved for a pre-trial intervention program after pleading not guilty to a third degree charge of aggravated assault Acting Atlantic County Prosecutor Jim McClain announced on Tuesday.

“This decision was arrived at after careful consideration of the information contained in Mr. Rice’s application in light of all of the facts gathered during the investigation,” McClain said. “After considering all relevant information in light of applicable law it was determined that this was the appropriate disposition.”

Rice is charged with aggravated assault, for attempting to cause significant bodily injury, and/or purposely or knowing causing such injury, and/or recklessly causing such injury under extreme indifference to the value of human life following a fight with his now-wife Janay Palmer at The Revel Casino in Atlantic City on Feb. 15.

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Palmer was initially charged in connection with the incident, but that charge was dismissed administratively.

The program Rice was approved for is a diversionary program that permits first time offenders of third or fourth degree crimes to avoid prosecution.

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It ranges in duration between six months and four years. The term will be determined by Atlantic County Superior Court. Rice will be supervised by court personnel to ensure compliance with the program’s requirements.

Successful completion of the program results in dismissal of the case, but the arrest remains on record without conviction.

Palmer was Rice’s fiancée at the time of the fight. They were married the day after Rice’s arraignment.

They live with their young daughter in Reisterstown, Maryland and are undergoing marriage counseling, according to The Press of Atlantic City.

Rice holds 11 Rutgers University rushing records, including career yards and career touchdowns. He was drafted by the Ravens in 2008, and won Super Bowl XLVII with the team following the 2012 season.


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