Celtics Shooting Guard Jabari Bird Arraigned on Alleged Domestic Violence Charges
Celtics shooting guard Jabari Bird was arrested Friday in Brighton, Mass. after an alleged domestic violence incident, according to the Boston Police Department.
Bird, 24, faces charges for domestic assault with a dangerous weapon, strangulation and kidnapping.
Bird was being guarded by police at St. Elizabeth's Hospital while undergoing an evaluation after the incident.
The victim, Bird's girlfriend, was taken to a separate hospital to be treated for injuries sustained.
According to the police report, the victim says Bird strangled her a dozen times, to the point of losing consciousness, in an ordeal that lasted 4 hours.
Bird's original Monday arraignment was delayed as he remained hospitalized. Boston Police escorted the Celtics guard to Municipal Court for his arraignment Thursday.
Bail was set at $50,000 cash.
The Celtics released an updated statement regarding Bird's arrest:
"Most importantly, our thoughts are with the victim of this incident. The Celtics organization deplores domestic violence of any kind, and we are deeply disturbed by the allegations against Jabari Bird," the team said. "Pursuant to Domestic Violence Policy in the NBA's labor agreement, matters of this kind are handled by the League Office, not the team, and so the Celtics will be working with both league and local authorities to assist in their ongoing investigations. The team will have no further comment at this time."
Bird released his own statement on Thursday, via ESPN's Marc J. Spears.
"I'm taking some time away from the team as I deal with my legal and medical issues. I apologize to my family, the Celtics organization, my teammates, the fans and the NBA for any unnecessary distraction that I have caused," he wrote. "The information that has been released does not tell the full story."
He added: "I do not condone violence against women. I am hopeful that in due time and process, I will be able to regain everyone's trust."
Bird was drafted by Boston with the 56th pick in 2017. He spent his rookie season on a two-way contract before being signed to the Celtics active roster in late July after an impressive showing in the Las Vegas Summer League.
The wing is set to earn $1.3 million in guaranteed money with Boston this season.
