Seattle, Washington – Former NFL offensive linesman Chad Wheeler has been sentenced to 81 months in prison after a violent attack on his girlfriend in 2021, leaving her with severe injuries. The sentencing took place on March 1, where Wheeler was also banned from contacting the victim and ordered to pay restitution.
Wheeler, a young player who had previously played for the New York Giants, was found guilty of first-degree assault domestic violence in November 2021. The attack occurred after his girlfriend, Alleah Taylor, refused his order to bow, leading to a horrific incident where she was choked and left with a concussion. Taylor now requires metal instruments to maintain motion in her arm due to the injuries sustained.
Despite the passage of time, Taylor remained steadfast in her pursuit of justice, expressing her relief at Wheeler’s sentencing. She took to social media to share her thoughts and gratitude for those who supported her throughout the legal process.
The assault took place while Wheeler was playing for the Seattle Seahawks, joining the team in 2019 after his time with the Giants ended. Standing at 6’7 and weighing 317lbs, Wheeler’s career saw him overcome injuries during his time at USC before transitioning to the NFL.
During his NFL career, Wheeler played 32 games with 19 starts and made one fumble recovery. Despite his promising start, Wheeler’s career took a dark turn with his involvement in the violent assault on his girlfriend.
The sentencing of Chad Wheeler serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of domestic violence and the importance of accountability in professional sports. Wheeler’s actions have not only derailed his own career but have also left a lasting impact on the victim and those who supported her throughout the legal proceedings.