Falcons defensive tackle Jonathan Babineaux, who once faced felony animal cruelty charges, is contending today with a new legal predicament.
He has been arrested on multiple charges, including possession of marijuana with intent to deliver.
We received a tip regarding the arrest earlier this morning, but the name that appears on the Gwinnett County criminal docket is “Jonathan Joel Babineoux.” The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has recently reported that Babineaux was arrested on drug charges, so apparently “Jonathan Joel Babineoux” is actually “Jonathan Joel Babineaux.”
Babineoux/Babineaux was booked at 1:00 a.m. ET and released at 5:10 a.m. ET.
Babineaux was arrested after police officers smelled marijuana during a routine traffic stop. They found three bags containing 40 grams of marijuana.
Per the AJC, the team has not commented on the matter.
Babineaux, who signed a five-year, $25 million contract extension in November 2008, will face potential discipline under the league’s substance abuse policy, which covers criminal charges arising from alcohol and/or drug use. The Personal Conduct Policy applies to criminal allegations unrelated to alcohol and/or drugs.
On Sunday, the Falcons host the 12-0 Saints. It’s currently unknown whether the arrest will affect Babineaux’s availability to play. He has started all 12 games this year; he also started every game for the Falcons in 2008.