Adrian Peterson Expresses 'Regret' in Child Assault Case
Adrian Peterson will avoid jail time after entering a no-contest plea in the case stemming from the assault of his son last Sept.
The 29-year-old Minnesota Vikings running back made headlines last Sept. when news broke claiming that he abused his four-year-old son whom the football star struck with a stripped tree branch, resulting in severe lacerations.
Peterson was deactivated by his team during the trial that took place. He entered a no-contest plea Tuesday, which resulted in a reduced misdemeanor reckless assault charge. The football star was not allowed contact with his son while his case was pending, but he will now be able to do so.
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While the Christian running back has posted Bible verses on his social media account amid accusations and criticism following the news going public, he took responsibility for his actions when speaking to the press.
"I truly regret this incident. I stand here and I take full responsibility for my actions," Peterson said after entering his plea deal, according to ESPN reports. "I love my son more than anyone of you could even imagine and I'm anxious to continue my relationship with my child."
The running back insists he had no intention of hurting his son, after attempting to inflict the same discipline he was raised with in East Texas. Still he was ready to move past it.
"I'm just glad this is over…I can put this behind me, and me and my family can continue to move forward," Peterson said.
Instead of a potential two years in prison, the NFL star has received a form of probation, must complete parenting classes and 80 hours of community service, ESPN reported.
Still it is unclear whether he will return to the NFL this season. Brian McCarthy, NFL spokesperson, told ESPN Ben Goessling that the league "will review the court documents" before deciding on the matter.
