An Atlanta Falcons rookie linebacker is facing serious criminal charges after being accused of stalking his WNBA star ex-girlfriend and deliberately crashing into her vehicle as she attempted to drive to a police station for assistance. James Pearce Jr., a 22-year-old first-round draft pick, was arrested in Doral, Florida, on Saturday following a dramatic incident involving Los Angeles Sparks player Rickea Jackson, 24.
Domestic Dispute Escalates into Dangerous Pursuit
According to arrest reports obtained by local media, the confrontation stemmed from a domestic dispute following the recent breakup of the couple's three-year relationship. Police Chief Edwin Lopez of the Doral Police Department stated that Pearce allegedly began chasing Jackson after she had blocked his phone number post-breakup. Authorities report that he continued to contact her using a different number, demonstrating persistent unwanted attention.
Targeted Attack Near Police Headquarters
The police report details a harrowing sequence of events that unfolded on Saturday morning. Jackson noticed Pearce's Lamborghini SUV following her as she entered her neighborhood shortly before 9:25 a.m. When she stopped at a red light, Pearce exited his vehicle and attempted to open her driver's side door, prompting Jackson to accelerate away from the intersection out of fear for her safety.
Pearce then reentered his SUV and pursued Jackson at high speed as she called 911 and began driving toward the police department. According to the arrest report, Pearce intentionally rear-ended Jackson's vehicle during this pursuit. As Jackson drove in circles around the police station area trying to evade him, Pearce cut her off and blocked her entrance to the station.
Head-On Collision and Police Confrontation
When Jackson attempted to reverse, Pearce "intentionally collided head-on with her vehicle," according to the official police documentation. The situation escalated further when officers arrived on the scene. One officer ordered Pearce to the ground, but instead of complying, Pearce returned to his vehicle and drove away, striking the officer in the knee and causing minor injuries.
Pearce then led police on a brief chase before crashing his vehicle and attempting to flee on foot. Authorities reported that he resisted arrest by tensing his arms and refusing to allow officers to apprehend him, requiring a short struggle before he was finally taken into custody.
Multiple Felony Charges Filed
Pearce now faces a substantial list of criminal charges including two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, fleeing and eluding police, aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, and resisting arrest without violence. Following a court appearance, a judge ordered Pearce to stay away from Jackson as a condition of his release.
On Sunday, Pearce was released from jail after posting a $20,500 bond. His attorney issued a statement maintaining Pearce's innocence, saying: "We look forward to working with the State Attorney's office in fully investigating this case and uncovering the truth. Mr. Pearce maintains his innocence and urges the public to understand that while allegations have the power to shape a narrative, that it is hardly the full, complete story."
Promising Career Now in Jeopardy
The arrest represents a significant fall from grace for the promising NFL rookie. Pearce was a first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft and finished third in defensive rookie of the year voting this past season, establishing himself as a rising star with the Atlanta Falcons.
The Falcons organization acknowledged the incident in a statement on Saturday, saying: "We are aware of an incident involving James Pearce Jr. in Miami. We are in the process of gathering more information and will not have any further comment on an open legal matter at this time."
The case highlights serious concerns about domestic violence and stalking behaviors, particularly involving high-profile athletes. As the legal process unfolds, both the NFL and WNBA communities will be watching closely to see how the situation develops and what consequences may follow for the talented linebacker whose professional future now hangs in the balance.
