Dallas

Johnny Manziel Strikes Dismissal Deal in Domestic Violence Case

Former NFL quarterback must undergo counseling, treatment or face prosecution

Former pro quarterback Johnny Manziel has struck a deal to dismiss his misdemeanor domestic violence charge, the Dallas County District Attorney's Office says.

In a statement, Dallas County DA spokeswoman Brittany Dunn said the charge against Manziel will be dismissed if he seeks counseling and treatment within the next year.

Manziel’s lead attorney, Jim Darnell, released the following statement:

"I'm thankful to both the court and prosecutor for their hard work and diligence in trying to come to a fair and just resolution for all parties involved. My client is pleased to be able to put this part of the situation behind him and is eager to satisfy the terms of the agreement."

Should Manziel, who earlier this year was accused of kidnapping, beating and threatening to kill then-girlfriend Colleen Crowley, fail to live up to the requirements, he'll be prosecuted for the offense charged.

Crowley said she and Manziel had a confrontation at a Dallas hotel Jan. 29 that continued to the valet stand where she was forced into a car while pleading for help. When she later tried to jump out of the car, she said Manziel hit her.

Following the incident Crowley was granted a protective order against Manziel, who was also ordered to pay her legal fees.

Judge Roberto Canas said at a hearing last month that the sides had reached a tentative deal on a conditional dismissal and had until Thursday to present that agreement. Thursday's hearing ended up being postponed so that a bailiff could attend a funeral.

"A conditional dismissal agreement is only the beginning of the process of educating an individual on how to make better choices when facing conflict. It is an important first step for a defendant. Success or failure will depend upon one's commitment to the treatment programs included," the district attorney's office said in a statement.

Dunn said the dismissal agreement was filed Friday without Manziel present. A spokeswoman for the former Texas A&M star didn't immediately return a call seeking comment.

Since the indictment on the assault charge, the Heisman Trophy-winner lost a number of endorsement deals and was cut by the Cleveland Browns. He remains unsigned and has re-enrolled at Texas A&M University.

Manziel may still face legal trouble. A lawsuit was filed against him earlier this week in Travis County after a bar employee accused the former NFL quarterback of punching him and breaking his nose.

NBC 5's Frank Heinz contributed to this report.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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