Back in late-October, WXYZ in Detroit reported local police had opened an investigation into why Lions wide receiver Jameson Williams was not arrested in relation to a traffic stop that took place on Oct. 8.
The driver. Williams' brother, disclosed there were two guns in the vehicle; one registered to him and the other to Williams. Williams was handcuffed when it was found he didn't have a CPL license, but he was released from custody at the scene. The internal investigation was to make sure Williams wasn't let go because of who he is.
On Monday afternoon, Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy's office announced Williams will not be charged in relation to the incident. Here's the press release (h/t to ESPN's Eric Woodyard and Fox 2 Detroit).
"We have looked at this case thoroughly and objectively. We did not consider that Mr. Williams is a Detroit professional athlete in our decision making. We have charged Detroit are athletes before and would not have hesitated to do so again if the facts of the case could be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. When it comes to charging decisions, we do not take into consideration who the potential defendant is, how much power and influence they have or how beloved they may be. We deal with the facts and the law only."
Jameson Williams will not be charged in relation to gun-related incident
In regard to Williams not having a CPL for the gun that's registered to him, there was some question about his brother's CPL covering any gun that's in his car. Worthy further acknowledged that current Michigan law does not provide guidance on that sort of matter.
"While no case has identical facts, we can look at similar facts, if possible, to aid us in our decision making. We really could not recall any case that had facts that mirrored this case. Every case is fact specific. As always, we apply the alleged facts to the existing law. And the applicable law and its accompanying legislative history is far from clear."
"I urge the legislature to immediately look closely at this law so that the prosecutors in Michigan can have steady and meaningful guidance in the future."
"Because the case law is silent regarding the specific issue, and the legislative intent of the CPL statute does not support charges under these facts, no charges will issue in this matter, and the warrant is denied,"
The statement from Worthy acknowledged if Williams would've had the gun on his person, he would have been charged.
"The CPL holder here was the driver and had care, custody, and control of the car. Guidance is needed for the future on how many weapons can a valid CPL say that they have control over? Despite all of this, if Mr. Williams had the gun on his person, he would have been charged,"
So after the investigation and no charges, Williams can put this incident all the way behind him and continue what has been a breakthrough season for him in the field (29 catches for 602 yards and four touchdowns in eight games).
