Josh Jacobs Sues Police to Block Release of Alleged Attack Video

Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs has filed a lawsuit against the Hobart-Lawrence Police Department in Wisconsin, seeking to prevent the public release of evidence related to an alleged attack on his ex-girlfriend. The suit, filed in Brown County, asks for a permanent injunction and protective order to bar access to materials collected by the department following the May 23 incident.

Jacobs' complaint states that the investigative materials may include police reports, photographs, audio and video recordings, witness statements, and other documents. He argues that this evidence, particularly any video recorded inside his home or private garage, contains private information and should not be accessible to the public. The running back also noted that the victim in the case, identified as "ANM," has filed a request to keep the materials from public view.

According to the lawsuit, public disclosure of the records could expose the victim to unwanted attention and further suffering. Jacobs also raised concerns that releasing information about his home and its security could make him a target for property crimes, citing instances where public figures have been victims of burglaries.

The Hobart-Lawrence Police had alleged that during a dispute, Jacobs grabbed the woman and threw her to the ground, causing injury, and also broke her phone. A probable cause affidavit indicated that at least part of the incident was captured by cameras within Jacobs' home.

Jacobs was charged with one count of battery and one count of criminal damage to property. He entered a no-contest plea to both charges on September 10. He was ordered to pay fines and fees for the battery charge, with sentencing for the damage to property charge suspended for one year. Jacobs stated at the time that he was taking full responsibility for his actions.

The investigative materials were expected to become public record after the resolution of the criminal case, but Jacobs and ANM's efforts have aimed to block their release. The police department has stated it is temporarily withholding the records pending further rulings on the privacy requests.

Jacobs has been on the commissioner's exempt list and has been unable to practice or play for the Packers since the charges were announced.