The Baltimore Ravens have just terminated running back Ray Rice‘s NFL contract following the video release of Rice’s attack on then fiancee, now wife, Janay Rice. The incident occurred on February 15, 2014 while the couple had been visiting an Atlantic City resort.
Initially, both were charged with assault upon reviewing an initial footage of the fight. However, the judge in the case later decided to drop the charges against Mrs. Rice. In March Ray Rice was given a more serious charge with possibility of serving up to 5 years behind bars.
Although the couple would later marry, it was clear, the incident was not going to go away. It was reported that in May, the athlete went to counseling in hopes that his criminal record would be cleared. On July 15, 2014, however, NFL commissioner Roger Goodell suspended Rice for two games upon the start of the new season.
After much criticism behind the lenient punishment, Baltimore Ravens has decided to terminate Rice’s contract. It may also be in part as a result of the complete footage of the fight going viral.
The video, obtained by TMZ.com, was released earlier today showing the couple in a very heated exchange. We see Rice spitting at his fiancee before entering a elevator. While in the elevator, Rice then proceeds to strike her, twice. The second blow to the face left Mrs. Rice unconscious; something we hadn’t witnessed during the initial video footage of the assault.
Once the elevator stops, Rice then proceed to drag Mrs. Rice until she regains consciousness. As you can imagine, the footage is highly disturbing and disappointing.
Watch the full footage below and share your thoughts.
What are your thoughts CK readers, was Rice punishment justified or not severe enough?
(Source)
Written By: Jazmine Abner
Twitter/Instagram: @Jazzicorleone
