Christian Barmore’s Arraignment Postponed Amid Ongoing Legal Proceedings
As the New England Patriots prepare for their biggest game of the season-a Super Bowl showdown with the Seattle Seahawks-one of their key defensive players is facing serious off-field issues. Defensive tackle Christian Barmore, a central figure on the Patriots’ front line, has had his arraignment in a domestic assault case pushed back to March.
Originally, Barmore was scheduled to appear in a Massachusetts courtroom on February 3. That date would’ve landed just days before the Patriots take the field in Super Bowl LX, with the team already stationed in California for final game prep. But a judge in Attleboro District Court granted a motion last Friday to delay the proceedings, moving the arraignment to March 9.
The decision came before the Patriots’ AFC Championship Game in Denver, allowing Barmore to remain available for the postseason run without the immediate distraction of court proceedings.
The Allegations Against Barmore
Barmore is facing a misdemeanor charge of domestic assault stemming from an incident in August involving his girlfriend. According to court documents, the dispute began over something seemingly minor-the setting on an air conditioner.
The woman told investigators Barmore was upset it was set at 70 degrees instead of 68. What followed, according to the complaint, escalated quickly.
She alleged that Barmore took her phone, grabbed her by the shirt near her neck, and threw her to the floor. The police report includes a photo she took of bruises she said resulted from the incident. While no immediate charges were filed, the woman told authorities she initially hesitated to come forward, citing concerns about Barmore’s financial influence and how it might complicate her life.
She decided to press charges on September 9, and a criminal complaint was formally issued on December 16.
Barmore Denies Wrongdoing
Through his attorney, Barmore has denied any criminal conduct. The Patriots have acknowledged they were made aware of the allegations back when the incident occurred. Head coach Mike Vrabel confirmed in December that the team had been informed early on.
The NFL, for its part, has stated that Barmore remains eligible to play while the legal process unfolds.
The timing of the case going public-just two days after news broke about separate charges against wide receiver Stefon Diggs-adds another layer of scrutiny to the Patriots organization as they head into the Super Bowl spotlight.
For now, Barmore remains a key part of New England’s defensive game plan. But with a court date looming in March, the legal chapter of this story is far from over.