NFL Player Potentially Facing DV Charges
Anyone can be accused of domestic violence. An argument can spiral out of control. Tempers can flare. And in some cases, police are called.
Domestic violence cases are notoriously difficult. Victims should be safe. Those accused, however, have a right to a defense. They’re innocent until proven guilty, but too often in domestic violence cases, individuals are assumed guilty from the first charge.
A player with the Green Bay Packers is now facing potential charges following a call related to a domestic disturbance. He was arrested on multiple charges, but the prosecutor was still considering charges over two weeks later.
If you’re facing or potentially facing domestic violence charges in Pennsylvania, contact the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team. We can assist with criminal charges and related charges, including Protection from Abuse Orders (PFAs). Call us at 888-535-3686 or fill out our online form to get help building a defense.
Multiple Charges for Arrest, Possible Pending Criminal Charges
Josh Jacobs, a seven-year NFL veteran, was arrested on several domestic violence charges in May 2026. He was booked on the following charges:
- Battery (domestic abuse, criminal damage to property)
- Domestic abuse
- Disorderly conduct (domestic abuse, strangulation, and suffocation)
- Intimidation of a victim
As of June 2026, however, Jacobs has yet to be formally charged. The prosecutor for the case has said that the investigation is ongoing. For now, Jacobs has been participating in off-season workouts with the Green Bay Packers.
Jacobs’s case highlights one of the challenges of the criminal justice system for defendants: The details and nuances can make it difficult to understand what’s happening. Jacobs was arrested based on those initial charges, but he hasn’t been formally charged.
What are Domestic Violence Charges in Pennsylvania?
As Jacobs’s case shows, domestic violence can refer to a wide array of alleged behavior and conduct. All of the following acts may be considered domestic violence in Pennsylvania:
- Battery
- Harassment
- Assault
- Sexual assault
- Stalking
- Trespassing
- Harassment
- Endangering the Welfare of Children
- Child Abuse
- Kidnapping
- Homicide
- Violation of a PFA
An alleged criminal action becomes domestic violence when the alleged victim is a family or household member.
What’s the Difference Between an Arrest for Domestic Violence and Formal Charges?
Pennsylvania allows police and other law enforcement officials to arrest individuals if they have probable cause to believe that individual committed an act of domestic violence. Law enforcement officers don’t need a warrant.
That a police officer wasn’t present when the alleged act occurred doesn’t matter. The statement of the alleged victim can be enough for someone to be arrested.
That someone was booked on charges doesn’t mean a case will continue. Following the arrest, the local prosecutor will begin an investigation into the alleged domestic violence to determine if evidence shows that a situation did involve domestic violence or related crimes.
The prosecutor may drop the case for lack of evidence. They may file formal charges. Even if formal charges are filed, this doesn’t mean an individual committed the alleged actions. It simply means the prosecutor believes there’s sufficient evidence to suggest the alleged criminal activity may have occurred.
Defendants have the right to an impartial investigation and trial. They have a right to defend themselves.
Protect Your Future
The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team defends individuals throughout Pennsylvania on a range of criminal charges related to domestic violence. We appreciate the challenging nature of these claims, how they often involve close relationships and are emotional and stressful for everyone involved.
If you’re facing any criminal charge related to domestic violence, call us at 888-535-3686 or fill out our online form.