Merriman Issues Statement About ‘False Allegations’

This was sent to the press via email last night:

On September 6, 2009 the San Diego Sheriffs Department responded to a citizens complaint that was initiated by Tila Nguyen (aka Tila Tequila). I was taken into custody based upon that complaint. At the time, I was concerned about her welfare given the intoxicated state she appeared to be in and I encouraged her to stay until safe transportation could be provided. We would all do our best to help a friend if we considered their actions to be detrimental to their personal safety. I in no way caused any harm to Ms Nguyen, however, paramedics were called and she was examined but no injuries were reported. She was released and has since returned to Los Angeles, California. There have been no charges filed against me. I want to thank the San Diego Sheriffs Department for their professionalism. I will continue to cooperate fully with the Department and I look forward to clearing my name regarding these false allegations. I want to put this behind me so I can continue to focus on a successful season for the San Diego Chargers.So, looks likes he’s done exactly as expected: claimed he was stopping her from driving drunk. I realize we aren’t supposed to give athletes the benefit of the doubt, but if that above statement is what really happened, then Merriman should be commended for what he did. Assuming he didn’t use excessive force to stop her, which it doesn’t appear he did based on her lack of injuries and the police department’s lack of charges.