Domestic Violence Case Against Former WWE NXT Wrestler Dropped

In May 2022, All Elite Wrestling’s Jake Atlas was arrested and charged with domestic violence in Florida after attacking his long-term partner during an argument. While the partner suffered only minor injuries, Atlas was charged with misdemeanor (domestic) battery after allegedly refusing to tell his side of the story. In late June, the charges were dropped – but if you are facing a similar charge, it is not in your best interests to simply hope that the same happens to you.

Consequences Can Be Serious

Florida defines domestic violence as any criminal offense – including both misdemeanor and felony battery – that results in physical injury or death to a “family or household member,” committed by another family or household member. While people in a dating relationship do not necessarily qualify under this statute, people in long-term relationships often do, as they can fall under the heading of “people residing together as a family.”

Domestic battery is the crime of battery committed against a family or household member, which specifically counts as a crime of domestic violence in Florida. If convicted, the recommended jail term is relatively brief – up to 1 year – but additional consequences are imposed, including fines, required attendance at a batterers’ intervention program, and potential loss of concealed carry firearm rights under the federal Lautenberg Amendment, among others.

Defend Your Rights 

When the charges against Atlas were dropped in June, the Orange County state’s attorney wrote that the case was, “in [their] opinion … not suitable for prosecution.” This is language that generally indicates that for a variety of reasons, it would either be impossible to obtain a conviction, or not worth the time and effort of prosecuting the alleged offender. This is most likely because Atlas caused very minor injuries to his partner – scratches and a torn shirt – but there may be other factors as well. For example, if the alleged victim in such a case declines to cooperate, it may be too difficult to obtain enough evidence for a conviction.

That said, it is extremely rare for a case to simply be dropped in this fashion. If you have been charged with domestic battery, it is crucial to enlist an attorney who can protect your rights. Defenses to the charge do exist – for example, arguing that you acted in self-defense, or that you did not actually cause any physical injury to the alleged victim – and the right legal assistance can help ensure that your rights are protected in court.

Contact A West Palm Beach Domestic Violence Attorney

While the legal troubles for Atlas appear to be over, it is imperative that you take the situation seriously if you are charged with domestic battery. A West Palm Beach criminal attorney from the firm of Perlet, Shiner, Melchiorre & Walsh, P.A. can make sure that you get your day in court, and work with you to guide you through the criminal process. Contact us today at (561) 721-0552 to speak to an attorney.

Source:

bleacherreport.com/articles/10040203-former-aew-wrestler-jake-atlas-domestic-violence-charges-dropped-after-arrest