Adrian Peterson ‘exceeded’ discipline standards says prosecutor

Dec 8, 2013; Baltimore, MD, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) tackled by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs (55) at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 8, 2013; Baltimore, MD, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) tackled by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs (55) at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

Just when the NFL thought their black eye couldn’t grow any worse, child abuse allegations are levied against Minnesota Vikings star running back Adrian Peterson.

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The Pro Bowl player turned himself into authorities on Saturday morning, shockingly smiling during his mug shot (a sentiment that has understandably irked some). In addition, Peterson was indicted by a grand jury in Montgomery County, Texas, on a charge of injury to a child.

According to the district attorney, Peterson’s actions went too far.

“Obviously, parents are entitled to discipline their children as they see fit, except for when that discipline exceeds what the community would say is reasonable,” said Phil Grant, first assistant district attorney in Montgomery County, Texas. “And so a grand jury having indicted this case, looked at the injuries that were inflicted upon this child and determined that discipline was not reasonable and did not reflect the community standards of what was reasonable discipline.”

For what it’s worth, Adrian Peterson has reportedly been very cooperative with authorities and admitted that he does ‘spank’ his children though his accounts of what have taken place do not match up with alleged reports from the child.

In regards to his football status, the Minnesota Vikings have deactivated Peterson for their Week 2 matchup against the New England Patriots and will continue to evaluate the situation as it progresses. It is believed that the team and NFL will bestow punishment upon Adrian Peterson in the somewhat near future, though what exactly that will be is not known.