NFL player mom: Ronnie Brown targeted because he is black

In this police photo released Monday, March 22, 2010 by the Smyrna Police Depart shows Miami Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown in a booking photo, who was arrested for drunken driving Saturday morning March 20, 2010. (AP Photo/Smyrna Police Department)

Miami Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown's mom told the Associated Press he was arrested because "he was driving a high-priced car and is black". The 28-year-old NFL player was arrested in a suburb of Atlanta on a charge of driving under the influence in the early-morning hours of Saturday, March 20, according to Marietta Police Officer Jennifer Murphy.

He was reportedly in the area for his parents' 32nd wedding anniversary and his visit to a local club was not related to the celebration. Brown was released from the Smyrna City Jail on a $1,100 bond. In addition to the race remark, Joyce Brown said police and media single out football players unfairly.

"Just because of who they are, they shouldn't be pinpointed. They are still people too," said Brown.

The explosive runner was the backbone of the Dolphins' Wildcat offensive strategy. During the 2009 season, he gained 648 yards with 147 carries, before injuring his ankle. Brown has more than 4,000 total yards rushing and 31 touchdowns in his career.

There was no mention of what Brown was driving, but ballplayer cars typically have tinted windows, making predjucial identification unlikely.