Former NFL offensive lineman Chad Wheeler has been sentenced to 81 months in prison after being found guilty of domestic violence for attacking his girlfriend, Alleah Taylor. The incident occurred in their shared apartment three years ago, where Taylor called 911 to report that she was being “killed.” According to police reports, Taylor suffered a dislocated arm and was bleeding during the attack.
Wheeler, who blamed the incident on having “a manic episode,” was ordered by the judge to have no contact with Taylor and to pay restitution. The victim, who is 5-foot-9 and 145 pounds, was significantly smaller than Wheeler, who is 6-foot-7 and 310 pounds, which was noted in the police report.
Taylor also recounted that the attack began when Wheeler asked her, a woman of color, to “bow to him.” When she regained consciousness, she found Wheeler standing next to her bed, saying, “Wow, you’re alive?” Her face was covered in blood, her arm was swollen, and she had fingerprints on her neck, according to reports.
Before the sentencing, Taylor took to social media to thank those who supported her during the difficult time. Wheeler, who played for the New York Giants and Seattle Seahawks in the NFL, started 19 of the 32 games he appeared in during his three seasons in the league.
The case has sparked conversations about domestic violence and the responsibility of professional sports organizations to address such issues. It serves as a reminder of the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their status or occupation.
