Antonio Brown Could Face Serious Legal Punishment If He Used Fake Vaccine Card

Antonio Brown could be facing serious legal repercussions if he used a fake vaccine card.

Buccaneers wide receiver Antonio Brown was accused of obtaining a fake COVID-19 vaccination card by a former personal chef, according to a report from the Tampa Bay Times. Chef Steven Ruiz decided to stop working for Brown after the two couldn't agree on a debt of $10,000 that Ruiz claims Brown owed him.

Text messages from the report supposedly show Brown's girlfriend, Cydney Moreau, asking Ruiz whether he could obtain a fake COVID-19 vaccination card for Brown. Ruiz said he was unable to do so but alleges that he later learned Brown had obtained a fake vaccine card elsewhere just days before training camp. He claims to have seen it himself.

Brown's lawyer, Sean Burstyn, has issued multiple statements in response to the allegations. Burstyn says Brown is vaccinated and noted the wide receiver would be willing to get a booster shot "live on TV" if it was required.

Tampa Bay also issued a statement claiming the team saw "no irregularities" when they observed the vaccination cards for each player. The NFL is reviewing the matter.

From @NFLprguy: “We are aware of the report and have been in contact with the club. We will review the matter.” https://t.co/AH0uPeOHNk

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 18, 2021

If Brown used a fake COVID-19 vaccine card, Greg Auman of The Athletic reports Brown would potentially be looking at punishment from the NFL and the legal system.

If an NFL player were to attempt to use a forged or fake COVID-19 vaccine card, it would be reviewed under the league's personal conduct policy. It also can be handled as a federal criminal offense.

— Greg Auman (@gregauman) November 18, 2021

If Brown violated the league's personal conduct penalty, he could be fined or face suspension.

According to the FBI's website, using a fake COVID-19 vaccine card is "unauthorized use of a government agency's seal" and a violation of federal law.

Via WFLA.com, according to Bridget Patton, public affairs specialist for the FBI Kansas City Division, Brown could face a fine and/or up to five years in prison.

Brown's status for this weekend's game against the Washington Football Team has yet to be determined due to an ankle injury he suffered in Week 6.

For more Buccaneers coverage, head to All Bucs.