National Football League

Vikings lineman arrested in Los Angeles

Published Jan. 31, 2011 12:00 a.m. ET

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Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen was arrested and hit with a Taser by Los Angeles police Monday after he allegedly assaulted an officer during a routine traffic stop, the Minneapolis Star-Tribune reported.

The former USC standout was booked on suspicion of felony battery following the incident, which occurred near the campus at about 4:00pm local time. Formal charges have not yet been filed.

He was released early Tuesday after posting $50,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in court later this month.

Citing a source, the Los Angeles Times reported that the officers asked for Griffen's license -- which turned out to be invalid -- and he told them he "did not want to go back to jail."

He then attempted to run from the officers, but did not get far before being captured.

The source said Griffen tried to grab one of the officers in the groin area, before they hit him with a Taser.

Los Angeles police confirmed that Griffen has just been arrested in Hollywood on Friday night for being drunk in public. He was released the following day.

The 23-year-old was also cited by police for a noise violation in Nantucket, Mass., in 2009.
Griffen was drafted by the Vikings last April in the fourth round after concerns about his character forced many teams to pass on him. He played mostly on special teams in 11 games in 2010.

"We are aware of yesterday's alleged incident involving Everson Griffen. At this time the team is gathering all the facts and will withhold any further comment," said Vikings spokesman Jeff Anderson.

Read more here.

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