NFL tight end Pettigrew arrested for allegedly punching cop

Free-agent tight end Brandon Pettigrew was arrested in Pittsburgh on Monday after police say he punched an officer in the chest three times, Shelly Bradbury of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

The 33-year-old was charged with two counts of aggravated assault, one count of theft of services, and one count of public drunkenness.

The incident is said to have stemmed from Pettigrew's refusal to pay a $97 fare for a limousine ride to downtown Pittsburgh. The limo driver called the police, who said they found Pettigrew visibly intoxicated. After "aggressively arguing" with officers, Pettigrew punched officer Patrick Fornadel three times in the chest, according to a criminal complaint.

Tasers were drawn but not used after Pettigrew allowed himself to be handcuffed. The interaction was captured by police bodycams.

A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for July 18.

Pettigrew, an eight-year veteran, last played in the NFL in 2015. He has recorded 2,965 career receiving yards and 17 touchdowns.

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