Wheeler charged with domestic violence assault, won't return to Seahawks

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Seattle Seahawks offensive tackle Chad Wheeler was released from jail Tuesday on a $400,000 bail bond after he was arrested Saturday morning on suspicion of felony domestic violence, according to online court records obtained by Bob Condotta of the Seattle Times.

King County prosecutors officially charged Wheeler with first-degree domestic violence assault, domestic violence unlawful imprisonment, and resisting arrest, according to Condotta.

Wheeler's girlfriend said the lineman assaulted her at a residence Friday night in the Seattle suburb of Kent, according to the police report obtained by Condotta.

The report states the incident began after Wheeler told his girlfriend to bow to him. When she did not, Wheeler threw the woman on a bed and strangled her before she lost consciousness.

Wheeler expressed surprise that the woman was still alive after she regained consciousness, according to the report. She then locked herself in the bathroom and contacted the police, saying she was being "killed."

Wheeler forced his way into the bathroom by picking the lock and was standing beside the woman when police arrived, the report said, and the victim was taken to Valley Medical Center with arm pain.

According to the report, Wheeler had not been taking his medication for bipolar disorder. He's due in King County District Court again Wednesday for a probable-cause hearing.

Seattle condemned Wheeler's actions in a statement Tuesday and said the backup offensive lineman, who is a restricted free agent, is "no longer with the team." He was waived on Wednesday.

The lineman released a statement on Twitter in which he apologized for the incident.

"Events happened over the weekend that transpired from a manic episode," he said. "I am deeply sorry for the pain and suffering that I have caused to Alleah and her family."

"I apologize profusely for the turmoil that I have caused to my family, teammates, fans and those closest to me," Wheeler continued. "The most important thing right now is that Alleah gets the care she needs and I get help. Both are happening."

"It is time for me to walk away from football and get the help I need to never again pose a threat to another. I cannot express my sorrow or remorse enough. I am truly ashamed," he concluded.

Wheeler joined the Seahawks in October 2019.