Charges dropped for Branch from predraft arrest
Key takeaways
- Branch's attorney, Kim Stephens, told ESPN on Wednesday that Georgia state prosecutors reviewed the evidence, including videos of the incident, and dismissed the charges.
- "Zachariah cooperated fully with law enforcement and did not commit a crime on the night of his arrest and never should have been arrested," Stephens said.
- Branch, 22, had faced misdemeanor charges of obstructing public sidewalks/streets-prowling and obstruction of a law enforcement officer.
Why this matters: a sports story that could shift standings, legacies, or fan conversations.
State prosecutors have dropped criminal charges against Atlanta Falcons rookie wide receiver Zachariah Branch, who was arrested April 19 in Athens, Georgia, on two misdemeanors for allegedly not following a police officer's commands.
Branch's attorney, Kim Stephens, told ESPN on Wednesday that Georgia state prosecutors reviewed the evidence, including videos of the incident, and dismissed the charges.
"Zachariah cooperated fully with law enforcement and did not commit a crime on the night of his arrest and never should have been arrested," Stephens said. "We are glad this matter is over and that Mr. Branch's excellent reputation and good name [are] restored."