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Earlier today (Tues., March 31, 2020), Jon Jones struck a plea deal with prosecutors that would result in one year of supervised probation, community service and four days of house arrest after pleading guilty to Driving While Intoxicated (DWI).
The gun-related charges appear to have been dropped.
“Bones” was arrested last week in Albuquerque, N.M., after police officers responded to shots being fired from a vehicle. After arriving on scene, officers found a hand gun under Jones’ car seat, as well as an open bottle of Mezcal in his vehicle. After failing a field sobriety test, Jones was arrested and subsequently released the following morning.
Now, the current Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) light heavyweight champion has issued a statement after his latest legal screw up, expressing remorse for his latest transgression.
“While we all work to understand and cope with stress and uncertainties surrounding the current state of our world, I want to express how truly disappointed I am that I have become the source of a negative headline again, especially during these trying times,” said Jones via a statement obtained by TMZ (courtesy of the champion’s rep, Denis White).
”I am disappointed for letting down the people I care about the most, my family, friends and my fans. This morning I entered into a plea deal with the Albuquerque DA’s office,” he added. “I accept full responsibility for my actions and I know that I have some personal work to do to, which involves the unhealthy relationship I have with alcohol.”
Jones has been very open about his struggles with alcohol, as well as cocaine and marijuana, in the past. Jones promises to do more to get over the vices that have haunted him — as well as his combat legacy — for years.
”I have dedicated so much time and energy to improve my community, and I will not allow this personal setback to hinder my work within the community when we need it most,” he said. “I truly appreciate the support I have received from the community of Albuquerque and all my fans around the world. I very much look forward to putting this behind me.
”Thank you all for your continued love and support and please take care of yourselves,” he added.
Jones had a bond arraignment court date set for April 9, 2020. It’s unclear if at this time if the judge presiding over the case will approve (or reject) this plea deal at that time.