Former NFL player and current television analyst Marcellus Wiley has publicly denied allegations of rape and abuse made by his wife, Annemarie Wiley, stating they are "lies." The denials come after Wiley was booked into the Orange County Jail on July 4 following an alleged altercation in Orlando. Annemarie Wiley filed for divorce on July 6, seeking a restraining order and citing irreconcilable differences. She also accused Wiley of a "continuing and escalating pattern of physical violence, sexual abuse, verbal and emotional abuse, financial control, and intimidation," which she alleges began in 2012 and includes multiple incidents of physical violence and four alleged rapes. She is seeking sole legal and physical custody of their three children.
In a statement released to The California Post, Wiley asserted he possesses "videos, photographs, text messages, emails, and other evidence that directly" contradict his wife's claims. He stated that his "highest priority has always been protecting" his children and preserving their relationship with both parents. Wiley also accused his wife of infidelity, alleging an affair with "her pregnant friend's husband."
Annemarie Wiley, a former cast member on Bravo's "Real Housewives of Beverly Hills," told police that the alleged altercation involved Wiley standing over her, poking her in the cheek, and threatening to kill her. The arrest affidavit also claims Wiley became physical with her in front of their seven-year-old daughter in a hotel room. Annemarie told authorities that Wiley has an unreported history of violence towards her, which he denies.
Wiley was released from custody on a $1,000 cash bond on Sunday night. The legal troubles come as Wiley faces separate, ongoing allegations of sexual assault from several accusers, claims he has consistently denied. Wiley was a defensive end in the NFL for a decade, playing for teams including the Buffalo Bills, San Diego Chargers, Dallas Cowboys, and Jacksonville Jaguars. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2001. Following his retirement, Wiley transitioned to a media career, co-hosting ESPN's "SportsNation."