Former New York Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez has pleaded not guilty to felony assault charges. Authorities report that Mark, 38, allegedly attacked delivery driver Perry Tole, 69, who used a knife in self-defense. A fight over parking in downtown Indianapolis led to the confrontation.
Mark Sanchez’s family issued a statement as the former NFL player remains under “medical care”
On Monday, Mark’s brother Nick Sanchez Jr. issued a statement on behalf of the family. “This has been a deeply distressing time for everyone involved,” Nick Sanchez said. “Mark and our family are incredibly grateful for the concern, love and support we’ve received over the past few days. Mark remains under medical care for the serious injuries he sustained and is focused on his recovery as the legal process continues. We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the first responders and medical staff.”
Arrested early morning on October 4, Mark was initially charged with three misdemeanors. The battery charges resulting in injury, public intoxication and unlawful entry of a motor vehicle were upgraded to level 5 felony charges. If convicted, Mark faces one to five years in prison.
Mark allegedly threw Tole toward the hotel wall. He responded by using pepper spray, but the alleged attack continued. Tole then stabbed Mark several times, according to court records. Mark was reportedly hospitalized with stab wounds to his upper right torso. Tole was also hospitalized with a cut to his left cheek.
A lawsuit filed by Tole accused Mark of causing “significant injuries to his head, jaw and neck.” It also states Tole now suffers “permanent disfigurement, loss of function, other physical injuries, emotional distress and other damages.” After investigators received details about Tole’s medical condition, the misdemeanor charge was upgraded to a felony.
On Tuesday, October 7, Mark waived his right to a preliminary hearing according to court documents obtained by Us Weekly.
Mark was released from the hospital on Monday. Further, his hearing is scheduled for November 4.
TELL US – DO THE CHARGES WARRANT MARK SANCHEZ BEING FIRED AND IMPRISONED?
