Former Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen was taken into custody Friday evening in Winona County following a traffic stop that resulted in a gross misdemeanor charge.
According to a representative from the Winona County Detention Center, Griffen was pulled over Thursday night at approximately 8:12 p.m. on Riverview Drive after allegedly traveling 62 mph in a 40 mph zone. The former NFL star was subsequently arrested and booked on a charge of operating a vehicle without an interlock device—a breathalyzer mechanism that prevents a car from starting unless the driver registers a 0.00 blood alcohol content. Jail records indicate Griffen posted bond and was released.
Shortly after his arrest, Griffen addressed the incident through an Instagram post, emphasizing that neither alcohol nor drugs played any role in the situation.
"Nothing happened when I got pulled over last night. My license was revoked because I forgot to complete the required class/test, and I just moved, so I was planning to take care of both the class and the address change on Monday," Griffen wrote in his social media statement.
The former defensive standout further clarified his position, stating, "I wasn't drinking, wasn't smoking, and wasn't doing anything wrong. Everything is fine." His remarks underscored his commitment to long-term sobriety.
Griffen enjoyed a distinguished career with the Vikings after the franchise selected him in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft. Over ten seasons in Minnesota, he accumulated 85.5 sacks and earned four Pro Bowl selections, establishing himself as one of the organization's premier defensive players during the past decade.
The former Vikings star is scheduled to appear in court on August 28 to address the charge.
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Ava Hart
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