Orlando City SC midfielder Will Johnson, an MLS veteran who has represented Canada on the international stage, was arrested on Wednesday morning following allegations of domestic violence from his wife.
According to the report from Orlando’s WFTV, Johnson got into an argument with his wife which turned violent when Johnson attempted to begin recording their confrontation on his phone.
Johnson tried to record the argument, but his wife grabbed the phone, police said.
The report said Johnson then, “Tackled her by wrapping both of his arms completely around her waist. (His wife) fell to the ground and hit the right side of her head on the brick patio. (She) also scrapped her right knee, left hand and right arm from the fall.”
Both Orlando City and MLS released statements about Johnson’s arrest, with MLS opting to suspend Johnson indefinitely.
First, the statement from the league.
Orlando City SC midfielder Will Johnson was arrested Wednesday and charged with misdemeanor battery in connection with an alleged domestic incident. Johnson has been suspended pending investigations by MLS and the Orlando Police Department. Major League Soccer will remain in close communication with Orlando City SC, local law enforcement, and the MLS Players Union during this investigation.
MLS will not have further comment on this matter until the conclusion of the League’s investigation.
Next, the statement from the club.
Orlando City SC midfielder Will Johnson was arrested early Wednesday morning in connection with an alleged domestic dispute.
We are working closely with MLS and local authorities through this matter and fully support the League’s decision to suspend the player pending further investigation.
The Club will not provide further comment until the investigation into this alleged incident is complete.
Orlando signed Johnson to a two-year deal this offseason following a year with Toronto FC. He’s played in 25 games this season, earning 23 starts and scoring twice.
Given the deliberate pace at which we’ve seen most domestic violence cases proceed, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say that Johnson’s season is over – Orlando’s season only has seven games remaining, ending on October 22nd.
[WFTV]
