Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Rey Maualuga was arrested in northern Kentucky on charges of drunken and careless driving.
Reports indicated that Maualuga was arrested after hitting a parking meter and two parked cars early Friday morning. He was held in the Kenton County jail for seven hours before reaching a plea and agreeing to return next month for a hearing.
The reports also stated that Maualuga had six drinks of Captain Morgan and Coca Cola. His blood-alcohol level at the time of arrest was .157, with the legal limit in Kentucky being .08.
Maualuga was selected in the second round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Bengals and started the first 15 games during his rookie season. He broke his ankle in Week 16 against the Kansas City Chiefs that would keep him sidelined for the following week and the opening round playoff loss to the New York Jets.
Without Maualgua, Cincinnati's run defense struggled against the NFL’s top rushing attack in the New York Jets their last two games of the season—including the playoffs. Before Maualuga was sidelined, the Bengals allowed their opponents to average just 87.7 yards per game.
The Bengals’ organization has refused to comment on the incident until the case is resolved. Maualuga is facing a $500 fine along with a six-month suspension of his license and 30 days in jail if convicted of the charges.
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