January 1, Texans Star Jailed Again After Violating Bond

Wyatt’s Take

• NFL millionaire can’t follow simple court orders about staying sober
• Another example of pro athletes thinking rules don’t apply to them
• Working families face jail time for far less serious violations

Houston Texans safety Jimmie Ward is back behind bars after violating his $30,000 bond conditions. The 34-year-old NFL player tested positive for alcohol, breaking the terms set by the court following his June felony assault arrest.

Ward was booked into Montgomery County Jail on Thursday, marking his second incarceration in two months. His attorney Steve Jackson confirmed the violation involved alcohol consumption, which was strictly prohibited under his bond agreement.

“It’s a condition of bond, and there are certain conditions like you can’t drink,” Jackson explained to reporters. “Jimmie believed it was for not getting intoxicated, like he could have a drink. The court has a zero tolerance policy for drinking while on bond, unbeknownst to him.”

The original charges stem from Ward’s June 12 arrest for assault on a family member by impeding breathing or circulation. This third-degree felony carries serious consequences in Texas courts.

Jackson maintains his client’s innocence and claims Ward will be vindicated. The attorney previously stated they are investigating the complainant’s background and alleged pattern of targeting high-profile athletes.

Ward signed a lucrative contract extension worth $10.5 million before last season. In two years with Houston, he has appeared in 20 games with three interceptions and 98 tackles after spending nine seasons with San Francisco.

The Texans organization released a brief statement acknowledging awareness of the situation but declined further comment while gathering information.

Wyatt Matters

This case shows how different the justice system treats wealthy athletes versus ordinary Americans. Regular folks who violate bond conditions don’t get multiple chances or sympathetic lawyers making excuses about misunderstanding court orders.

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