Former Detroit Lions tight end player Brandon Pettigrew, who is currently a free agent, found himself in significant legal trouble. According to the latest report, Pettigrew, aged 33, was arrested early Monday at a DoubleTree hotel in Pittsburgh. The incident occurred when a police officer claimed that Pettigrew struck him in the chest three times. Pettigrew played for the Detroit Lions for approximately six years, spanning from 2009 to 2015.
The report indicates that the altercation stemmed from a dispute over payment for a limousine ride from East Carson Street. Court documents reveal that Pettigrew is facing charges including theft, public drunkenness, and aggravated assault. A preliminary hearing for this case is scheduled for July 18th.
Allegedly, Pettigrew contested a $97 limousine fare which led to a heated argument between him and the driver, ultimately prompting the driver to summon the police. Witnesses stated that Pettigrew appeared intoxicated and unstable on his feet. Herbie Joseph, the limousine driver, described him as usually polite, but he had lost control at that moment.
Upon the police’s arrival, Pettigrew became increasingly agitated and advanced towards the officer. Eyewitnesses claim he engaged in a heated argument with the officer before physically assaulting Officer Patrick Fornadel by punching his chest three times.
Subsequently, Pettigrew was taken into custody and escorted to Allegheny County Jail. Due to his non-compliance with orders, he was secured in a restraint chair.
In terms of Pettigrew’s football career, he was selected 20th overall in the 2009 NFL draft and spent his entire NFL tenure with the Detroit Lions. Throughout seven seasons, he amassed 301 receptions for 2,965 yards and 17 touchdowns. Pettigrew exited the sport in 2016 and did not join any other team thereafter.
