Former Detroit Lions cornerback Cameron Sutton turned himself in to authorities in Florida after being wanted for domestic battery by strangulation. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office released video of Sutton arriving at a jail in Tampa. The sheriff stated that domestic violence has no place in the community and that the victim’s healing is a priority. The Lions released Sutton after the warrant was issued, and authorities had asked the public for help in locating him.
Lions President Rod Wood revealed that the team learned about the warrant at the same time as everyone else on social media. Sutton was found at the team’s training facility and was working out with the strength staff when officers arrived. Sutton had signed a three-year, $30 million deal with the Lions before the 2023 season after playing six years with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He had a successful season with the Lions in 2023, starting all 17 games and three playoff games, recording 65 tackles and an interception.
Pittsburgh drafted Sutton in the third round of the 2017 draft out of Tennessee, and he eventually became a starting cornerback in his fifth season with the team. Throughout his career, Sutton amassed 168 total tackles and eight interceptions in 84 games played. The Lions expected Sutton to be a starting cornerback alongside newly signed Carlton Davis for the 2024 season. Despite his on-field success, Sutton’s off-field issues led to his release from the Lions and subsequent turning himself in to authorities in Florida.
The incident involving Sutton and the female victim occurred on March 7 when officers responded to a call about domestic violence in progress. The former NFL player was wanted for domestic battery by strangulation, a third-degree felony that could result in a prison term of up to five years. After weeks of evading law enforcement, Sutton made the decision to surrender to authorities. The Hillsborough County Sheriff made it clear that domestic violence would not be tolerated in the community and that everyone, regardless of their status, is subject to the law.
Sutton’s sudden departure from the Lions and subsequent legal issues have caused a stir in the NFL community. His signing with the Lions was seen as a significant move in their defense, but the domestic violence allegations tarnished his reputation and career. As the legal process unfolds, Sutton will have to face the consequences of his actions, both in the criminal justice system and within the league. The incident serves as a reminder of the impact of domestic violence and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their behavior.
