September 25, 2024

Ex-NFL player denies Ohio golf course assault charges

Reggie Rucker

David Richard / AP File

Former NFL player Reggie Rucker exits a news conference for Hall of Fame running back Jim Brown on Wednesday, May 29, 2013, in Cleveland. Rucker, who had roles with two inner-city organizations in Cleveland, has been charged in federal court with stealing more than $100,000 from the groups to pay gambling debts and personal expenses.

BEDFORD, Ohio — A former Cleveland Browns player who had his sentencing delayed in an embezzlement case while he participates in a concussion study has denied charges that he assaulted a man at a golf course over a loud radio.

Cleveland.com reports Reggie Rucker pleaded not guilty to assault and menacing charges Monday in Bedford.

Highland Hills police say Rucker grabbed another man by the throat and pushed him at a suburban Cleveland golf course.

Police say Rucker asked the group if they had "any golf etiquette" and threatened to shoot the man during the April altercation.

Justin Withrow, an attorney representing Rucker, has said his legal team is investigating.

Rucker awaits sentencing after pleading guilty under a deal to stealing from two children's charities to pay gambling debts and personal expenses.