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Attorneys representing WNBA athlete Rickea Jackson have informed a Miami-Dade County court that Jackson is prepared to serve as a witness against Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr. in the event that his domestic violence case proceeds to trial. This was established through a legal filing submitted Tuesday, which cited Jackson’s willingness to participate in court proceedings regarding the case.
The notice, filed under Marsy’s Law, also requested that the court allocate “all possible resources and personnel…to conclude it as soon as practicable and bring justice to her and the people of the State of Florida.” The attorneys emphasized their client’s readiness to cooperate with all aspects of the legal process, reaffirming in the filing that Jackson “remains cooperative and willing to testify at trial, if one is necessary.” Jackson is represented in this matter by attorneys Gary F. Celetti and Wendy A.L. Beswick. They added, “The victim is pleading with the Court and the State to conclude this matter promptly without hindering the efficacy of the prosecution’s case.”

Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Pearce, 22, was taken into custody in Miami-Dade County last Saturday on several felony charges, among them two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated stalking. The court subsequently issued a conditional restraining order specifying that Pearce must have no contact with Jackson. Jackson’s filing also asserts her legal rights under Florida statute to receive timely updates, attend public hearings, and speak in any open court proceedings related to the case. In addition, she maintains the right to discuss potential plea agreements with prosecutors and communicate the personal impact of the defendant’s alleged actions.
According to information contained in a police affidavit, Jackson reported that Pearce, her former boyfriend, tailed her vehicle early Saturday. She stated he attempted to open her car door while she was stopped and then pursued her to the Doral Police Department before repeatedly ramming her car with his SUV. Jackson notified authorities, prompting a police response.
The affidavit details that officers observed Pearce standing outside his SUV on the driver’s side, with the vehicle’s door ajar. An officer drew a firearm and ordered Pearce to the ground, after which Pearce re-entered his vehicle and shut the door. When the officer opened the door, Pearce again closed and locked it, and drove off. During his departure, Pearce’s vehicle reportedly struck an officer in the left knee, with the affidavit characterizing the act as intentional in an effort to avoid arrest.

A vehicle pursuit ensued, ending when Pearce crashed at an intersection. He then exited his SUV and attempted to flee on foot. Officers apprehended him, though the report notes that Pearce “began to resist arrest by tensing his arms and not allowing officers to apprehend him.” Pearce was released from jail Sunday evening after posting a bond of $20,500.
In addition to the primary allegations of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated stalking, legal documents indicate that Pearce faces charges of felony aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, felony fleeing or eluding police, and resisting an officer without violence, which is classified as a misdemeanor.

Rickea Jackson / Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Jackson is in Miami participating in the Unrivaled basketball league. She disclosed to police that her relationship with Pearce lasted approximately three years before they recently ended their relationship.
Pearce, represented by attorneys Jacob Nunez, Yale Sanford, and Joshua Cohen, continues to reject the charges. In a statement, his defense team said Pearce “maintains his innocence and urges the public to understand that while allegations have the power to shape a narrative, that it is hardly the full, complete story.”

James Pearce Jr. / Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
The NFL is currently monitoring the situation. League spokesperson Brian McCarthy stated, the organization has “been in contact with [the Falcons] regarding the matter which will be reviewed under the personal conduct policy.” The Atlanta Falcons issued a brief comment Saturday night, noting they are “gathering more information.”





