In court on Wednesday in Los Angeles, Charlotte Hornets forward Miles Bridges submitted a not-guilty plea to three counts of domestic abuse. On August 19, Bridges will return to court to help set a date for a preliminary hearing.
On Tuesday, Bridges was formally charged with two felony counts of child abuse under circumstances or conditions likely to cause serious bodily injury or death as well as one felony offence of endangering a child’s parent.
According to a news statement from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office:
“Domestic violence creates physical, mental and emotional trauma that has a lasting impact on survivors,” District Attorney George Gascón said. “Children who witness family violence are especially vulnerable and the impact on them is immeasurable. Mr. Bridges will be held accountable for his actions and our Bureau of Victim Services will support the survivors through this difficult process.”
Bridges allegedly abused his fiancée in front of their two children “on or about June 27 and 28,” according to the lawsuit. On June 29, Bridges was detained by the LAPD on felony charges, although no other information was provided at the time. Later, after paying a $130,000 bail, he was freed. The Hornets released the following statement after word of Bridges’ arrest first broke:
“The Charlotte Hornets are aware of the situation involving Miles Bridges. We are in the process of gathering additional information. We have no further comment at this time.”
In 80 games last season, Bridges averaged 20.2 points, seven rebounds, and 3.8 assists, making him the Hornets’ leading scorer. This summer, he was anticipated to sign a huge contract with the Hornets or another team.
The young forward received a qualifying offer from Charlotte before the start of free agency, making him a restricted free agent who could be signed by any team that made an offer sheet to match.
The deadline for the Hornets to revoke their qualifying offer was July 13, but no action was taken by that time. Charlotte would need Bridges’ approval to withdraw that offer if it wanted to do so right away.
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