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Investigator Brian Maass has learned that Matt Russell, the Denver Broncos Director of Player Personnel, was arrested over the weekend after police say he hit a car in the mountain town of Frisco, then crashed into a police car a few minutes later in Breckenridge.
Sources say after the incident in Frisco Saturday evening, area police departments were on alert looking for Russell’s vehicle. A few minutes later a Breckenridge police officer was waiting along Highway 9 on the outskirts of town at about 7:30 p.m. when Russell’s vehicle approached and rear-ended the police cruiser.
The Breckenridge officer was hospitalized with what are described as minor injuries. Police arrested Russell at the scene.
Russell is facing charges of driving under the influence, careless driving resulting in injury, having an open container of alcohol in his car, and failure to display proof of insurance.
Drunk driving is never one of those things that is ok. Glad no one got hurt. We'll keep you posted as news comes out in regards to this situation.
UPDATED 7/8/2013 (4:15 PM MST):
The Broncos have released this statement:
“Our organization is extremely disappointed and concerned with the incident involving Matt Russell. We immediately expressed our disappointment to Matt, and he is fully aware of the seriousness of this situation. This type of behavior is unacceptable and very troubling. We expect better from all employees, particularly those in leadership positions. These allegations completely contradict the values and beliefs of the Broncos regarding social responsibility.
“We are continuing to gather information and will handle this matter appropriately and in accordance with all NFL policies.”
And Matt Russell himself has released this statement:
“I deeply regret the poor judgment I demonstrated that resulted in my arrest over the weekend. I apologize to the Denver Broncos, our fans and the National Football League for this inexcusable mistake. I’m ashamed that I represented this region and the Broncos organization in the manner that I did. I take complete responsibility for my actions and will be fully accountable. Going forward, I will take steps to ensure this never happens again.”