New police documents have provided further details regarding the arrest of former Los Angeles Chargers offensive lineman Ben Cleveland, which preceded his release from the team last month. An incident report from the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office indicates Cleveland was stopped on July 16 for allegedly driving 72 mph in a 55 mph zone.
According to the report, Cleveland acknowledged to the deputy that he was aware of the reason for the stop. The deputy noted that Cleveland provided an "old" driver's license, and dispatch later informed the officer that the NFL player was operating under a limited driving permit due to a prior DUI charge.
Cleveland reportedly admitted to another deputy at the scene that his travel that day was not to work or home, as stipulated by the conditions of his limited permit. He was subsequently arrested for violating the terms of the permit. Officers used two sets of handcuffs on the 6-foot-7, 315-pound lineman, placing them in front of his body.
He was taken to a local police station, cited for speeding and violating the conditions of his limited driving permit, and then released from custody. Less than two weeks later, the Chargers, who had signed Cleveland in January after five seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, announced his release.
The 27-year-old guard had previously been arrested in February 2025 for driving under the influence. He pleaded guilty to one count of DUI in November 2025 and was sentenced to probation and community service. Cleveland has remained a free agent since his release from the Chargers.