National Football League

Merriman: I didn't hurt 'Tequila', I tried to help her

Published Sep. 7, 2009 10:48 p.m. ET

foxsports

The Labor Day weekend arrest of Chargers LB Shawne Merriman has seen comments from attorneys, police officials and even Chargers GM A.J. Smith, but none of the parties involved had commented — until now.

downlevel descriptionThis video requires the Adobe Flash Player. Download a free version of the player.

Merriman sent a statement to FOXSports.com late Sunday regarding the events surrounding the incident that led to a citizen's arrest filed by reality TV star Tila "Tequila" Nguyen against Merriman.

In his first comments regarding his arrest, Merriman says he did not assault the reality TV star and was trying to prevent Nguyen from leaving his home in an intoxicated state.

Merriman practiced with the San Diego Chargers on Monday, then said he's convinced he'll be cleared.

"I think when it all surfaces, it will be a different situation. Period," Merriman said.

According to Merriman's statement Sunday: "On September 6, 2009 the San Diego Sheriff's Department responded to a citizen's complaint that was initiated by Tila Nguyen (aka Tila Tequila). I was taken into custody based upon that complaint. At the time, I was concerned about her welfare given the intoxicated state she appeared to be in and I encouraged her to stay until safe transportation could be provided.

"We would all do our best to help a friend if we considered their actions to be detrimental to their personal safety. I in no way caused any harm to Ms. Nguyen, however, paramedics were called and she was examined but no injuries were reported. She was released and has since returned to Los Angeles, California.

"There have been no charges filed against me. I want to thank the San Diego Sheriff's Department for their professionalism. I will continue to cooperate fully with the Department, and I look forward to clearing my name regarding these false allegations. I want to put this behind me so I can continue to focus on a successful season for the San Diego Chargers."

Neither Nguyen nor her representatives wanted to comment publicly.

Earlier: Merriman accused of choking Tila Tequila

SAN DIEGO (AP) — San Diego Chargers star outside linebacker Shawne Merriman was arrested Sunday and accused of choking and restraining his girlfriend, reality TV star Tila Tequila, as she tried to leave his suburban home.