U.S. soccer star accused of domestic violence

Alabama soccer fans may be interested to learn that goalkeeper Hope Solo was taken into custody on June 21 based on allegations of domestic violence. Police reportedly received a 911 call regarding a woman striking others at a residence near Seattle, WA. When they arrived at the scene, authorities claimed that they found a party where the soccer player appeared to be upset and intoxicated. They also reported that the star’s 17-year-old nephew and her sister had visible injuries. The soccer star now faces domestic violence charges.

The party was being held at a house occupied by Solo and former NFL player Jerramy Stevens. Police spoke with people at the scene who reportedly accused Solo of inciting the incident. She was detained and taken to South King County detention facility pending a June 23 arraignment. However, her attorney released a statement indicating that the woman was actually assaulted by others and suffered injuries during the altercation. In 2012, domestic violence charges were filed against Stevens, who was then Solo’s boyfriend. The two married the day after those charges were dropped.

Solo has helped the United States women’s national team win two gold medals as goalkeeper. Representatives for U.S. Soccer and Solo’s current team, the Seattle Reign FC, both declined to comment on the charges.

When a party leads to criminal offenses, an attorney might gather multiple accounts of the incident to form a defense strategy. It may be possible to subpoena witnesses who can testify in favor of the defendant. If the evidence creates questions regarding who was responsible for the series of events, a judge could reduce or drop the charges.

Source: FOX Sports, “USA’s Solo arrested for alleged domestic violence near Seattle”, June 21, 2014