Cleveland Browns Rookie RB Quinshon Judkins Arrested in Fort Lauderdale on Domestic Violence Battery Charge After Alleged Car Altercation

Cleveland Browns rookie running back Quinshon Judkins was arrested on July 12, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and charged with misdemeanor domestic battery after an alleged domestic violence incident that took place inside a car departing Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport on July 7. According to Broward County police, Judkins is accused of striking the woman with whom he was allegedly rekindling a prior relationship—reportedly punching her in the chin, then hitting her arm and thigh while driving. The charge is classified under Florida law as a “touch or strike/battery/domestic violence” misdemeanor.

On the morning of July 12, Fort Lauderdale Police responded to a report of a delayed battery complaint at approximately 9 a.m., arriving at a location on West Cypress Creek Road. The complainant stated the alleged assault had occurred earlier—on July 7—during a car ride that began after the couple left the airport’s baggage claim area and entered a rental vehicle.

Per the arrest affidavit and 911 call audio, the woman claimed Judkins became angry after reading text messages from her family. In response, he allegedly physically assaulted her—initially punching her in the mouth/chin area with a closed fist. She stated the impact left visible bruising. The situation escalated when Judkins turned around in the vehicle and struck her again, this time in the left arm and thigh.

The victim did not immediately call authorities. In a 911 call released by Fort Lauderdale PD, she described still being in pain days later and having visible bruises, which she could provide photos of. She recounted her initial hesitation, saying, “I thought that we could work through it, and obviously we couldn’t, so I’m trying to do the right thing now.”

Legal Processing and Court Proceedings
Judkins was arrested at the scene on July 12 and booked into the Broward County Main Jail. His initial court appearance took place the following day, at which point bond was set at $2,500. The presiding judge found probable cause to proceed, imposing conditions that he have no contact with the alleged victim and be restricted from possessing firearms. During the hearing, Judkins’ attorney, David Weinstein, contested some of the prosecution’s characterizations, suggesting that the state “overstated the facts” and that the complainant may have been “encouraged to take advantage” of his client.

Official Responses from Police, Browns, and NFL
Fort Lauderdale Police confirmed the misdemeanor charge under their official listing: “touch or strike/battery/domestic violence.”Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns stated in a preliminary release that the organization was “aware and gathering more information” regarding the arrest. The NFL confirmed awareness of the situation but declined further comment, citing standard policy.

911 Call Release Heightens Public Scrutiny
Public interest surged following the release of distressing 911 call audio. In it, the woman conveyed that she “still have visible bruises and evidence on my body” and said, “I am still in pain and I have a lot more of my story to tell.” The emotional tone of her voice and her detailed descriptions intensified pressure on both Judkins and the Browns.

Background on Quinshon Judkins
Judkins, 21, was selected as the 36th overall pick in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft out of Ohio State. Before that, he played two seasons at Ole Miss, where he compiled 2,725 yards and 31 touchdowns, and contributed to Ohio State’s national championship run in 2024. At the time of his arrest, he had not yet signed his rookie contract, making him the only first-round or second-round Cleveland draft pick without a finalized deal.

The incident occurred just days before Judkins was set to report to rookie training camp in Berea, Ohio. Following the charges, his scheduled youth camp appearance was canceled.

Potential NFL Fallout and Off-Field Conduct Policy
Although the charge is a first-degree misdemeanor, Florida law puts it at a maximum penalty of up to one year imprisonment, a year of probation, and a $1,000 fine.

Beyond the legal ramifications, the NFL is expected to review the case under its Personal Conduct Policy. Violations could result in disciplinary actions such as suspensions or fines. Recent history shows that even misdemeanor-level offenses can lead to league sanctions; for instance, Browns defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. received a five-game suspension following a similar incident last season.

How the Browns and the league choose to proceed could influence Judkins’ immediate future with the team—especially as reports indicate he remains unsigned and potentially holds less leverage in contract negotiations.

Broader Implications and Public Reaction
The news has sparked broader discussions around athlete conduct off the field. Domestic violence allegations often trigger strong responses from fans, sponsors, and league officials. The timing—coinciding with the beginning of training camp—places additional scrutiny on how quickly the Browns and the NFL act. Some consumers and community groups have already voiced concern over how teams handle players accused of such incidents.

Media coverage, including emotionally charged 911 call transcripts and victim statements, highlights the human toll behind what otherwise might be treated as just another off-field incident. It has also reignited public skepticism about the NFL’s consistency in enforcing its personal conduct guidelines.

Case Timeline at a Glance

• July 7, 2025: Alleged assault occurred in a rental vehicle departing Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport.

• July 12, 2025: Victim contacted Fort Lauderdale Police; Judkins was arrested on misdemeanor domestic battery charges.

• July 13, 2025: Initial court appearance; bond set at $2,500; no-contact and firearm restrictions imposed.

• Following days: Browns’ rookie camp appearance canceled; 911 call audio and police report leaked; NFL begins review.

What Comes Next

1. Legal proceedings: Judkins will return to Broward County court for hearings where potential plea deals or motions may be discussed.

2. NFL investigation: The league’s Player Safety and Conduct department is expected to open its own inquiry.

3. Contract status: Pending outcome of legal and league actions, Judkins’ rookie contract may be reevaluated, reprioritized—or even withheld altogether.

4. Public perception: Sponsors, fans, and public stakeholders will likely follow the case closely; statements from Judkins’ camp and the Browns will hold significant weight.

Cleveland Browns rookie RB Quinshon Judkins, drafted 36th overall in 2025, was arrested July 12 in Fort Lauderdale and charged with misdemeanor domestic battery following an alleged July 7 altercation in a rental vehicle after leaving the airport. The victim claims she sustained visible bruises and described lingering pain. Judkins, who remains unsigned and was due to report for training camp the week of July 21, posted bond and was released on $2,500 bail. The NFL is expected to review the incident under its personal conduct policy. The case may have far-reaching consequences for Judkins’ professional trajectory, the Browns organization, and how the league addresses domestic violence allegations in the modern era of heightened public accountability.