Kansas City Chiefs star wide receiver Rashee Rice has been sentenced to 30 days of jail time and five years of probation following his involvement in a serious multicar crash last year. The Dallas County District Attorney's office released information indicating that Rice pleaded guilty to two third-degree felony charges in district court: collision involving serious bodily injury and racing on a highway causing bodily injury.
A Dallas district court judge has granted Rice the flexibility to serve his jail time at any point during his five-year probationary period. According to sources, Rice has been given deferred adjudication, meaning the case will be dismissed if he successfully completes his probation requirements. Prior to his plea agreement, he also paid over $115,000 in restitution to the victims of the crash that occurred in March 2024, covering their medical expenses.
In light of these developments, the NFL is expected to expedite its disciplinary process concerning Rice. Reports suggest that he is likely to face a multigame suspension during the upcoming 2025 NFL season. NFL Vice President of Communications, Brian McCarthy, stated that the league has been closely monitoring all circumstances related to Rice’s case, which remains under review.
Following the sentencing, Rice issued a heartfelt statement through his attorney, expressing profound remorse for the physical damages inflicted on both individuals and property. “Last March, I was involved in a high-speed accident in Dallas,” Rice remarked. “There have been many sleepless nights reflecting on the damages my actions caused, and I will continue to work diligently to ensure that everyone impacted is made whole.” He further encouraged the public to adhere to speed limits and practice safe driving habits.
On May 30, 2024, police reported that Rice was driving a Lamborghini SUV at an alarming speed of 119 mph just before the crash occurred in Dallas. Dallas District Attorney John Creuzot commented on the incident, noting how fortunate Rice was to have escaped unharmed and emphasizing the need for accountability, especially given Rice's public platform. “A vehicle in the wrong hands can be as dangerous as any weapon,” Creuzot stated. He expressed hope that Rice would take this moment as an opportunity for personal growth and lead by example in making safer choices in the future.
At just 25 years old, Rice faced a significant setback last season when he suffered a torn right ACL in Week 4. This injury sidelined him for the remainder of the Kansas City Chiefs' AFC championship campaign. However, the team is optimistic about his recovery, anticipating that the 2023 second-round draft pick will be healthy when training camp commences next week.
