Is there potential for the NFL and the Baltimore Ravens to take action against Zay Flowers despite the suspension of the police investigation?
Updated on: February 21, 2024 / 9:04 PM EST / CBS Baltimore
BALTIMORE — Baltimore County Police have suspended the investigation into the domestic violence allegations involving Ravens’ star Zay Flowers, with no charges being filed.
However, the question remains: Can the Ravens or the National Football League take action and discipline the wide receiver?
The NFL’s Code of Conduct for players stipulates that “even if a case does not lead to criminal charges, players are held to a higher standard and may still face punishment, including suspension.”
The Ravens have refrained from further comment beyond an initial statement weeks ago, stating they “take these matters seriously.”
The investigation stemmed from an allegation of domestic violence assault reportedly occurring inside an Owings Mills townhome on January 16, where property records indicate Flowers resides.
A 911 call was made by a woman who sounded distressed and was crying, though she stated there was no emergency before disconnecting the call.
Five days after the 911 call, the woman returned to police in Acton, Massachusetts, according to the police report.
Though she declined to share photographs of her bruises, the woman stated she was physically assaulted, which resulted in multiple bruises. She also mentioned the suspect’s brother allegedly brandishing a firearm during the incident. However, she hesitated to identify her boyfriend, an NFL player, citing fear due to his high-profile status.
Baltimore attorney Adam Ruther commented, “In certain circumstances, the police and more specifically the State’s Attorney’s Office can proceed in a domestic violence case without the cooperation of the complaining witness, but obviously, they would need other evidence that they would be able to use in order to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.”
Through his attorney, Zay Flowers declined an interview with police.
No charges have been filed, and the case is now suspended. However, it could be reopened if the department receives additional information.
Ruther explained, “Within one year, if they develop new information that allows them to charge, then they certainly could do that. On the other hand, if there’s an allegation that there are felonies involved, those could be charged at any time.”
