Jaguars’ Barnes gets six-month probation for DUI charges
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Barnes, a third-year veteran and starter on the left side of the Jags’ line, also has apologized for his obscenity-marked tirade against the arresting police officer. The resolution of Barnes’ case was first reported by the Florida Times-Union and confirmed by a court clerk and a spokesman for the Jacksonville police. Barnes, who pleaded no contest to drunken-driving charges, was ordered by Judge James Ruth to pay $650 in fines and court costs and to perform 50 hours of community service. His license was suspended for six months and Barnes, who registered a blood alcohol level of .12 when he was arrested, must also attend a drunken driving class. Barnes, 25, also wrote a letter to officer D.E. Cullen, apologizing for the remarks he made in the minutes following his arrest. In an incendiary rant captured on videotape, Barnes accused Cullen of racism, suggested he targeted Jaguars players, termed the policeman a “KKK devil,” complained about playing in Jacksonville, and referred to the city as a “hick town.” Wrote Barnes in his letter of apology: “The stress of the situation led me to say things which I do not believe. I want you to know that was out of character for me. You were just doing your job that night, and I am sorry for the things I said to you. I know you have a hard job.” Barnes was criticized locally for the remarks and fined by Jaguars officials. Coach Jack Del Rio benched him for the team’s Nov. 12 game against Houston. A second-round choice in the 2005 draft, Barnes moved into the Jacksonville lineup in the second month of his rookie season and started 12 games that year. The former University of Washington standout started all but one game in 2006. |