New York Jets nose tackle Kenrick Ellis, who was facing a felony charge for malicious wounding and who could have faced up to 20 years in prison or even deportation if convicted, reportedly reached a plea deal in Hampton (VA) Circuit Court on Thursday (via ESPN New York).
Ellis agreed to misdemeanor assault and battery in a pre-trial hearing. Ellis, who was born in Jamaica, looks to have gotten around the potential to be deported. The Jets and Ellis both declined comment on the case.
The district attorney's office wasn't immediately available to comment on potential jail time, but the victim's attorney, S. Howard Woodson, told the Star-Ledger of Newark the plea deal means six months of active jail time.
Under Virginia law, Ellis would have to serve only 90 days, but time served could be applied.
The assault charge stemmed from a 2010 incident at Hampton University. Ellis claimed he was defending his girlfriend. Beyond the criminal case, Ellis also faces a civil suit brought by the victim who wants $3 million in damages.
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