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Michael Bennett to Enter Not Guilty Plea If Felony Charge Goes to Trial
March 30, 2018
Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Michael Bennett's lawyer said Friday that his client will enter a not guilty plea if his case goes to trial.
Rusty Hardin said the following regarding Bennett's case, according to ESPN.com's Tim McManus: "The only two possible outcomes for this case is the DA's office [saying] they don't have a case and dismissing, or a trial—one or the other. If and whenever they ask for a plea, it will be not guilty."
Bennett is facing a felony charge of injury to the elderly stemming from an incident that occurred after Super Bowl LI at NRG Stadium in Houston last year.
Per McManus, Bennett allegedly pushed through security personnel, including a 66-year-old woman who is paraplegic, to gain field access after the New England Patriots beat the Atlanta Falcons in Super Bowl LI.
Bennett was attempting to reach his brother, Martellus Bennett, who was a tight end with the Pats at the time.
Houston Police chief Art Acevedo said Bennett allegedly told security, "You all must know who I am, and I can own this m-----f-----. I'm going down to the field, whether you like it or not."
Last week, Bennett turned himself in at a courthouse in Harris County, Texas, according to Miya Shay of ABC 13.
He later posted $10,000 bond.
Bennett was traded from the Seattle Seahawks to the Eagles this offseason along with a seventh-round pick for wide receiver Marcus Johnson and a fifth-round pick.
The three-time Pro Bowler is set to enter his 10th NFL season.
If Bennett's case is brought to trial and he is found guilty, he could face up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.