Assault with a Deadly Weapon: The Calabasas Incident Involving NFL Legend Terrell Owens

CALABASAS, CA — Former NFL star Terrell Owens became the focal point of a legal incident in Calabasas. On October 16, after a disagreement post a basketball game, an individual reportedly targeted Owens with his car, specifically aiming for his knee. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department provided a statement on the matter: “As the suspect left the location, he struck Mr. Owens on the left knee with the vehicle. He then drove away and out of view. Mr. Owens was not injured and declined medical treatment.”

The Sheriff’s Department is currently investigating this incident as an “assault with a deadly weapon.”

California Penal Code: Understanding Assault with a Deadly Weapon

In California, Penal Code Section 245(a)(1) defines assault with a deadly weapon (ADW) as an act where an individual uses a deadly weapon or force, which is likely to result in significant bodily harm. Notably, a vehicle, when used with the intent to harm, can be classified as a deadly weapon under this code.

Conviction under ADW can lead to:

• Misdemeanor ADW: Penalties can include up to one year in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
• Felony ADW: The accused might face a prison term ranging from two to four years and/or fines up to $10,000.

The nature of the weapon, the severity of injuries inflicted, and the intent behind the act play pivotal roles in determining the charge’s gravity.

The act of leaving the scene, as indicated by the quote, can further complicate the legal scenario. In California, hit-and-run offenses, especially those involving injuries, can lead to additional charges and penalties. If proven that the suspect intentionally hit Owens and then fled, it could be seen as an act of evading responsibility, which the courts often view unfavorably.

Defense Strategies: Navigating Vehicle Assault Cases

In serious cases like this, a strong defense strategy is essential. An experienced criminal defense attorney would:

• Review All Evidence: This includes CCTV footage, eyewitness accounts, and any other pertinent evidence.
• Determine Motive and Intent: A deep dive into the events leading up to the incident can offer invaluable context.
• Evaluate Owens’ Role: Any evidence suggesting Owens might have played a part in escalating the situation becomes critical.
• Interrogate Eyewitnesses: Detailed questioning can reveal inconsistencies in their accounts.

Conclusion

The incident involving Terrell Owens in Calabasas underscores the intricate nature of assault with a deadly weapon charges in California. When such incidents occur, understanding the legal intricacies becomes paramount.

For those navigating similar legal challenges, The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi provides exceptional legal expertise. Contact us at (310) 870-2400 or schedule a consultation. Our LA office, situated in Westside Towers, is conveniently accessible from Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Westwood.