Former NFL cornerback Damon Arnette, known for his stint with the Las Vegas Raiders, has been sentenced to community service after agreeing to a plea deal in a gun-related incident. The 26-year-old athlete, who is eyeing another opportunity in the NFL, expressed remorse for his actions during Monday’s hearing. He emphasized personal growth and redemption, acknowledging that he has learned from his past mistakes.
Arnette was indicted in May on felony gun charges following an incident that occurred in January 2022 at the Park MGM Las Vegas Hotel and Casino. The charges ultimately resulted in him pleading guilty to misdemeanor assault and drawing a deadly weapon charges as part of the agreement with prosecutors. Clark County district judge Ron Israel sentenced Arnette to 50 hours of community service and imposed a $2,000 fine. Additionally, the judge ordered him to stay away from firearms.
The arrest stemmed from a report of a person with a gun and an altercation with casino valets. Arnette was accused of brandishing a .45-caliber handgun during the argument. In the months leading up to the incident, Arnette had already faced challenges, including being released by the Las Vegas Raiders due to lawsuits and a troubling video where he made threats while showing what appeared to be semi-automatic weapons.
While the Kansas City Chiefs had signed Arnette to a reserve contract, they ultimately released him following his arrest at the casino. Arnette shared with reporters that he has been in discussions with the Dallas Cowboys regarding a potential NFL return. However, he acknowledged that resolving his court case was necessary for any talks to progress. Regardless of his football future, Arnette spoke confidently, stating that he is a better person now and will succeed in whatever path he chooses.
Selected as the 19th overall pick from Ohio State in the 2020 draft, Arnette’s NFL career was marred by injuries, limiting him to 13 games, with seven starts, in his one-plus seasons. Despite not recording any interceptions, he contributed with 29 tackles.
As Arnette looks to put his troubled past behind him, he remains determined to make the most of any opportunity that comes his way, whether in the NFL or elsewhere.
Author: Ryan Scott
Just a guy
