Patriots veteran safety Patrick Chung was indicted on a felony charge of cocaine possession on Aug. 8 in New Hampshire stemming from a July 25 incident, and is due to appear in Belknap Superior Court next Wednesday for arraignment.
"We are aware of the reports regarding Patrick Chung," the team said in a statement. "We will not be commenting while his judicial proceedings take place."
The league's statement: "We will monitor developments in the law enforcement matter."
Jim Murray 98.5 The Sports Hub tweeted that, according to a source, "Patrick Chung’s home in Meredith had an alarm tripped for a B&E. Police show up to check on the home, have probable cause to enter the home, and ultimately end up finding cocaine, leading to the investigation and indictment."
Now, onto what's really important here: What's the expected fallout between Chung, the Patriots and the league? You might be surprised.
First, let's deal with the league.
It all depends on if Chung had a previous violation of the NFL's substance-abuse policy, which was developed by both the NFL and NFLPA. If he was already in the program for a previous violation (even another drug, like marijuana) we wouldn't know about the first violation (or several when it comes to pot).
If he's already in the program, this indictment will trigger at least a four-game suspension.
If he's not, then it depends on the outcome of the case. Under the league policy, Chung can be suspended up to four games if he pleads guilty or is convicted.:
2.3 Violations of Law Involving Other Substances of Abuse
Apart from and in addition to any other provisions of this Policy, Players convicted of or admitting to a violation of law (including, within the context of a diversionary program, deferred adjudication, disposition of supervision, or similar arrangement including but not limited to nolo contendere) relating to use, possession, acquisition, sale, or distribution of Substances of Abuse other than alcohol, or conspiring to do so, are subject to appropriate discipline as determined by the Commissioner.
Absent aggravating circumstances, discipline for a first offense will be a suspension without pay for up to four (4) regular and/or post-season games. If the Commissioner finds that there were aggravating circumstances, including but not limited to felonious conduct or serious injury or death of third parties, and/or if the Player has had prior drug or alcohol-related misconduct, increased discipline may be imposed. Discipline for a second or subsequent offense, absent aggravating circumstances, will be a suspension without pay for a minimum of six (6) up to ten (10) regular and/or post-season games. A Player’s treatment history may be considered by the Commissioner in determining the appropriate level of
discipline.