New England Patriots defensive tackle Christian Barmore is facing a misdemeanor charge of assault and battery on a household or family member.
Court records filed in Massachusetts on Dec. 16 and reported by ESPN show that the charge is connected to an alleged incident that took place Aug. 8. Barmore's arraignment has been set for Feb. 3.
According to the charging documents, obtained by ABC, the alleged victim told police she had been in a relationship with Barmore and that an argument escalated inside his home. The dispute reportedly began over the temperature of the air conditioning in his bedroom and later involved a disagreement about food.
The woman told authorities that as she attempted to leave the house, Barmore took her phone from her hands. Court documents state she planned to open the door and scream for help but alleged that Barmore grabbed her, threw her to the floor, and held her by the shirt near her neck area as she tried to get back up. She said he eventually released her.
In a statement released Wednesday, the Patriots said the team was aware of the situation when it occurred and notified the league at the time. The team added that it will continue to cooperate with the NFL while monitoring developments.
Barmore, 26, is in his fifth NFL season after being selected in the second round of the 2021 draft out of Alabama. He has appeared in all 16 games for New England this season, starting 15, and ranks third on the team in quarterback hits while recording 26 tackles and one sack.
Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel told reporters that Barmore was not with the team Wednesday due to an illness.
The charge against Barmore was filed one day after Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs was revealed to be facing separate legal issues. Both players are represented by attorney David Meier, who has not publicly commented on Barmore’s case.
New England has already clinched a playoff spot and is set to close out the regular season on Sunday at home against the Miami Dolphins.