Houston Texans safety Jimmie Ward was arrested Thursday morning in Magnolia, Texas, on a charge of assault family violence impeding breath or circulation, a third-degree felony.
Montgomery County police responded to a report of an assault in progress and arrested the 33-year-old at his residence. Ward is accused of assaulting, strangling, and threatening his fiancée during the incident.
Authorities transported Ward to Montgomery County Jail, where he remains in custody without bond. The charge carries a possible penalty of up to 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine if convicted.
The Houston Texans confirmed awareness of Ward’s arrest and stated they are gathering additional information. The team has not commented on disciplinary actions or Ward’s future with the organization.
Ward is in his second season with the Texans after spending nine years with the San Francisco 49ers. Neither the NFL nor the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office has issued further public statements.
The league typically reviews off-field conduct cases and could consider disciplinary action under its personal conduct policy. Media inquiries regarding the case have been directed to the Texans’ communications department.
Authorities have not released additional details about the incident or the condition of Ward’s fiancée. The investigation remains ongoing.