Former Detroit Lions cornerback Cameron Sutton surrendered to Florida authorities more than a week after being suspected in a domestic battery case. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office announced his surrender, revealing that Sutton was wanted on an allegation of domestic battery by strangulation, a felony punishable by up to five years in prison. After the sheriff’s office asked for the public’s help in finding Sutton, his lawyer came forward to say that he would surrender. The sheriff’s office did not immediately disclose the identity of Sutton’s lawyer, and his sports agent did not comment on the allegations.
The sheriff, Chad Chronister, expressed his thoughts for the victim of the alleged domestic violence, stating that he hopes she will heal from the incidents. Sutton was ultimately booked into a jail facility, but it was not clear if he had been released. The Lions team president, Rod Wood, revealed that Sutton had been at a team facility in Michigan when the sheriff’s office released the news about the domestic battery case. Wood encouraged Sutton to “do the right thing” and surrender. Sutton had previously signed a three-year, $33 million deal with the Lions in 2023 and had been a key player in the team’s successes on the field that season.
Sutton’s surrender comes after weeks of evading law enforcement, according to Chronister. The sheriff emphasized that nobody is above the law in Hillsborough County, suggesting that Sutton’s surrender was the right choice. Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Sutton has not made any public comments about the allegations against him. The news of Sutton’s alleged involvement in a domestic battery case came shortly after the Lions announced his release from the team, following the sheriff’s office’s announcement that he was wanted for questioning.
The sheriff’s office originally shared information about Sutton’s alleged involvement in the domestic battery case in a “Warrant Wednesday” news release. This prompted the public to assist in locating Sutton, leading to his lawyer coming forward and announcing his intention to surrender. While the specific details of the allegations against Sutton have not been publicly disclosed, the seriousness of the charges – domestic battery by strangulation – could result in a lengthy prison sentence if he is convicted. Despite facing legal issues, Sutton had been a valuable player for the Lions, contributing to the team’s impressive record in the 2023 season.
Overall, the situation involving Cameron Sutton highlights the potential ramifications of domestic violence allegations and the importance of accountability for all individuals, regardless of their public standing or occupation. The sheriff’s office in Hillsborough County made it clear that they would pursue justice in this case. As Sutton navigates the legal process, the spotlight remains on the serious nature of the charges against him and the impact of his actions on the victim of the alleged domestic abuse. Sutton’s decision to surrender to authorities is a significant step in addressing the allegations and moving forward with the legal proceedings in a proper and lawful manner.
