The StarTribune reports new details in the arrest of Vikings wide receiver Jerome Simpson on suspicion of drunk driving Saturday.
According to Lt. Eric Roeske, state troopers responded to a call a little after 4 a.m. about a car blocking lanes of traffic on Interstate 394 near downtown.
When the trooper arrived, Simpson got out of the Dodge Charger, showed signs of intoxication, and flunked a field sobriety test.
Simpson denied he was drinking.
He was booked at 5:39 a.m. A jail official told reporters he was booked quickly, which indicates he was being cooperative. Initial reports were that he was to be held for 36 hours not including Sunday or Monday, a holiday.
However, KSTP reports that Simpson was released from jail on Saturday afternoon after posting bond.
A statement from the team said it will have further comment at “an appropriate time.”
The Pioneer Press reports that when Simpson played for the Cincinnati Bengals, he was convicted for growing marijuana at his Kentucky home. He was suspended for the first three games of his career with the Vikings for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy. USA Today has more background on that story.
ESPN reports that Simpson’s future with the Vikings and the league could be in jeopardy. The report says even if charges against Simpson are dropped he could face another suspension. He was suspended for the first three games of his Vikings career in 2012. The league could view him as a repeat offender, which could mean a four-game suspension.
After Thursday’s game, the team has the weekend off. The Vikings’ next game is Nov. 17.
That was a short stay. Vikings WR Jerome Simpson out of jail. Spent about 7 hours behind bars suspected of drunk driving. Posted $12k bond.
— Paul Blume (@PaulBlume_FOX9) November 9, 2013
