Miami Dolphins assistant coach Ryan Crow has been arrested after allegedly slapping his girlfriend during a drunken fight that spiraled out of control, authorities say.
The 37-year-old outside linebackers coach was taken into custody early Friday morning in Ft. Lauderdale and charged with felony battery, according to a probable cause statement obtained by NFL Network. The Dolphins have since placed him on administrative leave.
Police say the argument began outside the couple’s luxury apartment complex after Crow and his girlfriend returned from a team work party, where she reportedly “felt neglected by other team employees and their wives,” according to the South Florida Sun Sentinel. The spat turned physical, with a witness claiming Crow shoved his girlfriend, wrapped his arms around her, and lifted her “as if he was going to perform a takedown,” whispering something into her ear. “Victim looked terrified,” the witness told police.
Authorities said Crow eventually put her down, but the same witness alleged he began “throwing slaps and trying to grapple” with her before retreating when he realized he was being watched. Another witness reported hearing a “slap,” a “thud,” and a woman “whimpering” from inside the couple’s apartment, where the cheapest rent reportedly starts at $4,500 a month.
Crow’s attorney, Michael Gottlieb, claimed alcohol played a major role in the incident. “My client has no prior criminal record,” he said. “This was an unfortunate incident, fueled by alcohol, that resulted in the allegation of a shove. I am confident the charge will be dismissed.”
Crow’s arrest comes just over a week before the Dolphins’ season opener against the Indianapolis Colts on September 7. Earlier this offseason, Crow interviewed with the Dallas Cowboys for a defensive coordinator position but was not selected.
In a statement, the Dolphins said, “We are aware of the serious matter involving Ryan Crow and are currently gathering more information. Ryan has been placed on administrative leave effective immediately. We have been in communication with the NFL and will reserve further comment at this time.”
Crow is currently being held without bail and is expected to appear before a judge Saturday morning.