Taylor = Thug

[oafusp]

WASH POST:

Taylor Faces Charges of Assault
Redskins Safety Is Released After Posting Bond

By Jason La Canfora
Washington Post Staff Writer
Monday, June 6, 2005; E01



Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor posted bond and was released from police custody at 11:32 Saturday night after surrendering to authorities and being charged with two counts of aggravated assault with a firearm, a felony, and one count of simple battery, a misdemeanor, according to police and detention center reports.

Accompanied by his lawyer, Fred Moldovan, Taylor paid a bond of $16,500 at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center, a source said, and he has an arraignment hearing scheduled for the morning of June 24 in Miami at the Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building.

Taylor, 22, the fifth overall pick in the 2004 draft, was arrested in connection with an incident that occurred Wednesday night in Miami, where he resides. According to a police report, Taylor and a co-defendant, Charles Elwood Caughman, 19, of Baltimore, drove up to a residence in a blue 2005 GMC Yukon Denali truck and Taylor pointed a gun at two individuals he believed had stolen two all-terrain vehicles from him and demanded they be returned. No shots were fired and Taylor and Caughman left the scene before returning 10 minutes later.

At this point, police say Taylor, whom the team lists as 6 feet 2, 231 pounds, exited the vehicle and began assaulting one victim, swinging and missing with a closed fist before a fight ensued. Caughman, who was arrested and charged with aggravated assault on the night of the incident, chased the other victim with a baseball bat before he and Taylor fled the scene, according to the police report. The incident took place less than two miles from Taylor's residence in Miami. Police have not been able to determine if the victims were involved in the theft of Taylor's vehicles.

Caughman was released June 2 after posting $1,000 bond. He will be arraigned June 23.

Taylor's mother, Donna Junor, could not be reached yesterday afternoon, and his father, Pedro, the chief of police in Florida City, Fla., has not commented on the matter, referring media calls to Junor.

Police had been trying to question Taylor since the time of the incident, but he did not surrender to them until 10 p.m. Saturday night.

Taylor is the only Redskins player skipping the team's voluntary offseason program, and his absence had already been the cause of concern and disappointment within the organization prior to his arrest. Coach Joe Gibbs has often expressed his dissatisfaction with Taylor's decision to remain in Florida while his teammates trained and practiced at Redskins Park, and the second-year player had not returned numerous calls from Gibbs and his staff. Taylor's agent, Drew Rosenhaus, has not returned repeated phone calls, and Moldovan did not return a message left at his office yesterday.

The Redskins have made no comment on Wednesday night's incident beyond a statement they issued late Saturday night, which said: "We have just been made aware of a potential situation in Miami regarding Sean Taylor. The representatives for Taylor are keeping us informed as to the developments of the situation. There is nothing we can add to the process at this time."

Police officials noted in a news release that the team cooperated fully in their investigation. The NFL is making no comment on Taylor at this time. The NFL waits until the legal process is complete before fining or suspending players in these instances.

Redskins H-back Chris ey, who was Washington's second pick in the 2004 draft, said he hopes this is the last of Taylor's legal problems.

"For me, it's tough to hear about, because you see the guy on the field and know him in locker room, and he is a good guy," ey said. "Lots of guys on the team like him, and I talk to him all the time and know him pretty well, and it's hard to see. You have a different life from when you come in the locker room and when you walk out of there, and you hope people care more about football and doing good things than going out and getting in trouble. I hope it works out for the best for him.

"He has to learn from it. If he doesn't learn from it, then obviously everything will end fast for him; there's no other way if you want to stay in the NFL. Especially now, it seems like to me, the league is really trying to keep everyone having a good name and they want the NFL to look like a good, clean organization and they really come down hard on people that make it look bad. He has no choice but to learn from it and not do it again."

After last year's draft, Gibbs spoke at length about the amount of time and resources spent checking into Taylor's makeup and background before selecting him, but the player has been plagued by off-field issues since then.

Initial contract negotiations were delayed as Taylor went through a prolonged spell without representation after twice firing his agents before rehiring Rosenhaus. Taylor quickly became displeased with the contract -- worth a minimum of $18 million and a maximum of $40 million based on incentives -- that he had negotiated under a prior agent, and team officials met with Rosenhaus this spring to hear those concerns, although no alterations were made to that deal. After that meeting, Gibbs said he no longer believed Taylor's absence was related to his contract, although Rosenhaus never provided the club with a full explanation for Taylor's reluctance to spend time at Redskins Park this offseason.

Running back Clinton Portis, Taylor's teammate in Washington and at the University of Miami, said repeatedly that his friend needed time away from football and would ultimately report for mandatory training in good shape. Junor, Taylor's mother, said last week that her son has spent a bulk of the offseason at her house, and his great grandmother said that Taylor ate dinner at their home before going out Wednesday night, when police say this incident took place.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/co ... 00742.html

[die cowboys die]

The neighbor who obviously is a theif because he has in his possession 2 ATV's that belong to Taylor, sees that he has stolen from Sean Taylor, millionaire NFL football player and quickly comes up with this story.

Niki, you raise an interesting point. consider sean taylor's reputation- right or wrong, he definitely developed a reputation for being a bit "imbalanced" during last year. someone may have gotten into a bit of an incident with him and decided they could use that reputation as leverage to work against him and help their side of the story. to me that sounds a little more likely than a straight-up "frame job", though it is certainly quite possible that some hoodlums could try to "set him up" to take advantage of his reputation and his giant NFL paycheck.

here's hoping that's what's going on...
however, we all know it shouldn't even matter, since he should've been here with the skins.

[JPFair]

someone may have gotten into a bit of an incident with him and decided they could use that reputation as leverage to work against him and help their side of the story. to me that sounds a little more likely than a straight-up "frame job", though it is certainly quite possible that some hoodlums could try to "set him up" to take advantage of his reputation and his giant NFL paycheck.

Boy, we're REALLY grasping at straws now!!

[hkHog]

Taylor may face 3 years
By Jody Foldesy
THE WASHINGTON TIMES
Published June 6, 2005

Washington Redskins safety Sean Taylor could face a mandatory minimum sentence of at least three years if he is convicted on a felony charge of aggravated assault with a firearm after Miami police said he pointed a gun at two people and physically assaulted one Wednesday.

Taylor was arrested late Saturday night after he turned himself in to the Miami-Dade County Police Department. He was charged with aggravated assault with a firearm, a third-degree felony, and simple assault, a first-degree misdemeanor.

The Associated Press reported Taylor was released yesterday on a $16,500 bond, though a police official wouldn't confirm that when reached later in the day. Taylor reportedly will be arraigned at a later date.

The mandatory minimum sentence is part of a 1999 makeover of Florida's gun laws, called "10-20-Life," by Gov. Jeb Bush. To get tough on gun crime, Florida instituted mandatory minimum sentences of 10 years if a person possesses a gun while committing certain crimes, 20 years if the gun is fired and 25 years to life if someone is shot.

According to the Florida state code chapter 775.087, aggravated assault is one of 18 crimes to which the mandatory minimum sentences apply but also one of three in which the sentence is just three years at the "10" level. However, the loophole closes at the "20" level, when a gun is fired.

That could be a crucial distinction in Taylor's case. Police said Friday that they were seeking Taylor in connection with a "shooting" in southern Dade County. They said shots were fired during a dispute in a residential area but that no one was hurt.

However, a press release yesterday from the police department made no mention of whether Taylor fired any shots or whether any shots even were fired. It specifically said Taylor pointed a firearm at two victims and that no shots were fired at that time.

There was a second phase of the incident, and it is possible shots were fired at that time without being noted in the press release. An official at the police department declined to answer questions about the press release.

If Taylor indeed fired the gun during the incident, he would face a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years -- 17 more than if he did not fire the gun.

A message wasn't immediately returned from the state attorney's office to confirm the application of the "10-20-Life" law. The applicability of the law was first reported by profootballtalk.com, a Web log that focuses on NFL news.

The second charge, simple battery, carries a sentence not exceeding one year.

According to the press release, the incident began Wednesday evening when Taylor drove his blue 2005 Yukon Denali to an area in southern Dade County. He was accompanied by Charles Elwood Caughman of Baltimore and several other unidentified individuals. Some members of the group were in a second vehicle.

Taylor accused the two victims of stealing a pair of all-terrain vehicles, according to the press release. He pointed a gun at them and demanded his property be returned. No shots were fired. Taylor's group left the scene and returned about 10 minutes later. Taylor got out of the car and "physically assaulted one victim with his fists," the press release said. Caughman wielded a baseball bat as he chased the second victim. The second victim was not struck. Taylor's group then fled the scene again.

The press release noted that police hadn't determined whether the victims were involved in any theft and that Caughman was arrested and charged with aggravated assault Wednesday night.

The Redskins commented briefly Saturday night to say that they were aware of Taylor's situation and were monitoring it through Taylor's representatives. Agent Drew Rosenhaus declined comment last night. Coral Gables attorney Fred Moldovan, who reportedly accompanied Taylor to the police station, did not return a call seeking comment.

Taylor has made repeated missteps off the field since Washington drafted him fifth overall in 2004. Last October he was arrested for DUI on the Capital Beltway, though he eventually was acquitted on both charges related to the incident. He also showed up late for the NFL's rookie symposium and was accused of spitting on an opponent, among other dubious moves.

http://www.washtimes.com/sports/2005060 ... -8725r.htm

I hope he did not fire the gun.

[Deadskins]

Or it would have happened in Virginia and he'd have been chased down by a truck full of rednecks in sheets.

For a Toga Party?

[oafusp]

"THE MOST RESEARCHED DRAFT PICK IN THE HISTORY OF SPORTS"

[Deadskins]

The fact that he was indicted, probably means this isn't a frame job. Now if the two "victims" are the only witnesses to his pointing the gun at someone, that charge probably won't stick. If he fired a shot (into a house or a car), forensics will be able to prove that, and I can't see him getting off. He may be able to plea bargain it down to a misdemeanor rather than a felony. That would help with the whole fine/suspension thing.

[Gibbs' Hog]

At least he got to keep the bling for his mug shot

[Tahoe Skin]

Sports Central is reporting Taylor put someone in the hospital:

Washington Redskins 2004 first-round selection Sean Taylor has put someone in a general hospital and is charged with aggravated assault with a firearm, a felony, and simple battery. Maybe the people who know and talk to Sean Taylor will know and talk to him a lot less, thanks to the above advice from Jamal Lewis.

http://www.sports-central.org/sports/20 ... ssions.php

Sounds like Taylor will soon be facing a lawsuit stemming from the battery.

[DaveSkin]

I think Sean Taylor has become a poster child for young athletes that think they are above the law. Any of you know any people growing up that had parents in law enforcement? One of my friends as a kid had a cop for a dad and he always thought he could get away with murder. Granted, this is a large generalization on cops kids - there are likely huge numbers of cops kids that are well adjusted and don't use their parent's position of authority to inflate their ego. I'm just going by personal experience.

Add in a U-Miami player that is clearly a gifted athlete that has gotten enormous attention and it's a recipe for disaster.

I'll throw this in. A good friend of mine is a mechanic at a service station in Tysons Corner, VA. Last year during the regular season Sean Taylor walked into the store part of the station and tried to purchase something that required ID. (I forget what he was purchasing - don't want to speculate). When the cashier asked for ID he said he didn't have it on him. When the cashier told him he needed ID in order to purchase he blew up, saying that he was Sean Taylor and that he could buy the whole place. He then pulled a wad of large bills out of his pocket and threw them on the counter and stormed out in a fit. A few minutes later a young lady that he was with came back in the store and collected his money.

I have no reason to believe that my friend made up this story. I didn't even think much of it until now. A very clear picture of his character is begining to show throw and I doubt it's a character that Joe Gibbs wants around our team.

[Jake]

He looks so happy in those photos.

[EuroSN]

I'm calling it right now,
this is going to be the first high profile test for Florida's new "Stand-Your-Ground Law" that was enacted last month which permits the use of deadly force as self defense without having to prove that you tried to avoid conflict.
IANAL, but I'd figure that this new law would cover this incident and I'm sure the DA will plea him out to community service & a fine on the misdemeamor battery charges.

Also, I think after Winslow, Taylor and possibly Shockey people really should think twice about players from 'The U'. I am always shocked at the wonderlic scores of Miami players; many of them scoring below a level established as basic literacy by Wonderlic, Inc. And that after 3 years of college?!?!? No doubt their players are talented but there must be something in water down there that turns them into primadonas.

ES

[Fo_Block]

Also, I think after Winslow, Taylor and possibly Shockey people really should think twice about players from 'The U'. I am always shocked at the wonderlic scores of Miami players; many of them scoring below a level established as basic literacy by Wonderlic, Inc. And that after 3 years of college?!?!? No doubt their players are talented but there must be something in water down there that turns them into primadonas.

ES

taylor and winslow are more trouble than they are worth - but from that same draft class Vilma, DJ Williams, and Wilfork all had good seasons last year and had no off-field issues.

[hatsOFF2gibbs]

Do you think JGibbs would trade STaylor if he didn't show up to the mandatory camp?
I think JGibbs is furious at the moment and is not willing to take any more crap from STaylor.

If STaylor didn't come to the first mandatory camp day, I'd seriously consider trading him.

[REDEEMEDSKIN]

...When the cashier told him he needed ID in order to purchase he blew up, saying that he was Sean Taylor and that he could buy the whole place. He then pulled a wad of large bills out of his pocket and threw them on the counter and stormed out in a fit. A few minutes later a young lady that he was with came back in the store and collected his money.

:shock: Somebody call Comedy Central!!!!!! I think we found Dave Chappelle's replacement. Sean is a lock to fill Rick James boots from the evidence presented above.

This whole saga is really emotionally draining. (Reading this long thread, I mean.)

[FatPat]

I didnt look thru all 22 pages (@ work) so Im sorry if this has been posted previously...

Taylor Is Excused From Mini-Camp (Redskins.com)

http://www.redskins.com/news/newsDetail.jsp?
id=7438

[EasyMoney]

Head coach Joe Gibbs and the Redskins released a statement on Monday afternoon saying that safety Sean Taylor has been excused from attending the remainder of the team's voluntary off-season workouts as well as the June 17-19 mini-camp.
Taylor is involved in a legal matter in Miami.

"As an organization, we feel it's better for Sean to concentrate on these personal issues and hopefully get this squared away for him," Gibbs said.

The full text of the statement is as follows:

"Everyone here is aware of the situation involving Sean Taylor this past week in Miami.

"The League has a Personal Conduct Policy that governs this type of situation and we will be discussing the matter with League officials. All questions regarding the League's Personal Conduct Policy should be directed to the League Office.

"With that in mind, we have informed Sean's agent that, as of today, Sean is excused from participating in the remainder of the club's voluntary off-season workout program and the upcoming mandatory mini-camp beginning on June 17.

"As an organization, the Redskins believe that it is in Sean's best interest to focus on his personal and legal issues at this time."

-----------------------------------------

Gibbs is pissed and rightfully so. To hell with just camp, I don't care if I see him play all season. So disappointing.

[REDEEMEDSKIN]

I guess this formally ends his "holdout".

[JansenFan]

...and his hopes of a new contract. (not that there has been any proof that his holdout was contract-related).

[Gibbs' Hog]

Know what the real kicker is?

If ST had been at the voluntary workouts, it's most likely none of this would have ever happened. What a moron.

[JPFair]

EXCELLENT move by Gibbs!! Gibbs will do two primary things:

1- Prevent this from being a distraction to the team.

2- Not allow Sean Taylor to go to another team where it can hurt the Redskins.


I have faith in Joe Gibbs' handling of the entire situation. What an excellent tactic it was to "excuse him" from the rest of the off season voluntary sessions, but this sends a HUGE statement to Taylor that his quasi holdout has done nothing to help his contract situation, and in fact, obviously, did a LOT of damage to his chances of making more money. Brillian move by Gibbs!!

[SkinsHead56]

Well I guess Sean got what he wanted all along. He has been officially excused from the rest of the rest of the "voluntary workouts".

[SkinsJock]

..EXCELLENT move by Gibbs!! Gibbs will do two primary things:

1- Prevent this from being a distraction to the team.

2- Not allow Sean Taylor to go to another team where it can hurt the Redskins.


..this sends a HUGE statement to Taylor that his quasi holdout has done nothing

Brilliant move by Gibbs!!

I agree JP but I do not think it was ever about the contract - IMO this was just Sean wanting to be "different"! There seems to be a lot of athletes who place their "agendas" as more important than the teams that give them the opportunity to shine!

I also agree that Gibbs is not even remotely considering letting Sean go (for any price) at this time.
Joe was never going to let Sean dictate any terms to the Skins and the team is now in the position that they can curtail his opportunity to be a "star".

Losing Sean hurts a little but not if we keep him and he eventually plays on Joes' terms!

[biznitchn]

....and if we dont can we use that money for say .. our Rookies. Does anyone know what the scenario for that is. Does Taylor have to pay it back or do we just get to keep the money?

[hatsOFF2gibbs]

http://www.the-hogs.net/forum/viewtopic. ... &start=220
It's the Official Sean Taylor and Miami Dade Police thread.