Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs has asked a Wisconsin court to permanently restrict public access to evidence connected to his misdemeanor battery case, joining the woman involved in seeking to keep sensitive materials from release.
Jacobs filed the civil action Wednesday in Brown County Circuit Court against the Hobart-Lawrence Police Department. The request centers on records from a May incident at his Wisconsin home, including surveillance footage recorded in the garage where the confrontation occurred.
Last month, Jacobs entered a no-contest plea to misdemeanor battery and criminal damage to property charges. The case stemmed from an altercation with his then-girlfriend, and the criminal complaint said garage-camera footage supported her account of what happened. The video has not been made public.
Lawyers for the woman previously moved to seal the evidence. In the new filing, Jacobs’ attorney, Clarence Duchac, said the running back supports her request because records that identify her or expose private details could subject her to renewed attention and further harm.
The lawsuit seeks to block release of descriptions, photographs, audio, video, statements, communications and other records that could affect the woman’s privacy, safety, emotional health or ability to move forward after the case.
Jacobs’ filing also argues that the garage footage could create a separate security concern for the three-time Pro Bowler. It says public disclosure could reveal details about the residence, entry points, security setup and property while making it easier for potential criminals to identify times when Jacobs is away. The complaint cites recent crimes involving prominent athletes as part of its concern over theft, burglary, robbery, trespass and other targeted conduct.
Police arrested Jacobs on May 26, three days after officers first responded to a disturbance at his home. The woman told officers that Jacobs grabbed her and threw her to the ground as she tried to leave through the garage, causing her to strike her head. Police said he then took her phone while she was on the ground.
Officers reported seeing redness on the woman’s face and neck and said they felt a bump on the back of her head.
Jacobs was charged in late August and was subsequently placed on the NFL Commissioner’s Exempt List. The designation keeps him from playing or practicing but permits him to continue receiving his salary.
Under his agreement with prosecutors, the criminal damage to property charge may be dismissed after one year if Jacobs complies with several conditions. Those terms include avoiding further legal trouble, having no contact with the woman in the case, remaining under supervision, completing counseling and paying restitution.
