Michael Wilhoite was expelled as a coach of the Denver Broncos in the NFL, after being accused of assaulting a police officer on February 23 at Denver International Airport.
The former coach was arrested and charged with second-degree assault. It was only on March 5th when Sean Payton, the head coach of the team, issued a statement notifying about his dismissal.
“After exhaustive discussions as an organization, I met with Michael Wilhoite and informed him that we have decided to part ways... We acknowledge the serious nature of the accusations against him and believe this is the best course of action at this time,” the statement, released by People.
He added that “I appreciate Michael’s contributions to the Broncos and I am confident that he will move in a positive direction.”
Before this statement, Payton had already stated that they would evaluate the case and apply the appropriate sanctions based on the NFL regulations.
What happened to Michael Wilhoite before being fired as a coach of the Denver Broncos?
The aforementioned media outlet reported that according to a report from the Denver Police Department, 38-year-old Michael Wilhoite had an altercation with the police officer after he was told that his car was improperly parked in the airport’s departure area.
The police report states that the former Denver Broncos coach hurled insults at the officer and when he returned to his car, continued to insult him and then struck him in the chest. The officer pushed him back in response, and allegedly, Wilhoite struck him again, causing him to fall to the ground. He then attempted to flee in his vehicle, but the police officer used his taser and apprehended him.
Wilhoite was released on bail and must appear before a court on March 10th.
The Denver Broncos website says that Wilhoite has been a assistant coach for two years. Before that, he was with the 49ers and also with the Chargers.