Rickea Jackson Willing to Testify Against NFL Star Ex James Pearce Jr. in Domestic Violence Case
Rickea Jackson, forward for the Los Angeles Sparks and one of the top scorers in the WNBA, has taken a significant legal step in the ongoing domestic violence case involving her ex-boyfriend, Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr. Court filings show Jackson is willing to testify against Pearce if the felony charges filed against him proceed to trial, marking a major development in the high-profile case.
The notice — a formal part of the legal process under Florida’s Marsy’s Law — was submitted by Jackson’s attorneys in Miami-Dade County this week and signals her intent to fully cooperate with prosecutors. In it, her legal team urged the court to dedicate “all possible resources and personnel” to help conclude the case quickly and deliver justice not only for Jackson but for the State of Florida as well.
What Led to This Legal Filing
The case stems from an incident on February 7, 2026, near Doral, Florida, where police say Pearce, 22, followed and rammed Jackson’s vehicle multiple times before fleeing from responding officers. Charges brought against Pearce include two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, aggravated battery on a law-enforcement officer, and fleeing or eluding police with lights and siren, plus a misdemeanor count of resisting without violence. Pearce was released on a $20,500 bond and has been ordered to maintain a stay-away order prohibiting contact with Jackson.
According to the police affidavit, Jackson explained that Pearce — her former boyfriend of nearly three years — tried to open her car door at a stoplight before following her toward the police station and repeatedly striking her vehicle as she attempted to reach safety. When officers arrived, Pearce allegedly continued to evade arrest, striking an officer with his SUV during the pursuit, and later crashed his vehicle before being taken into custody.
Jackson’s Legal Rights and Cooperation
By filing a victim’s rights notice, Jackson is asserting her statutory rights to be notified of major developments in the prosecution, to be present at public proceedings, and to be heard in court if necessary. Her paperwork also makes clear she is prepared to testify “if one is necessary,” putting her front-and-center in any future trial should the state decide to pursue one.
In addition to offering testimony, her attorneys stressed that the case should proceed without unnecessary delay, advocating for swift judicial action to bring closure and accountability. Jackson is represented by attorneys Gary F. Celetti and Wendy A.L. Beswick, who have been active in ensuring her rights are exercised fully throughout the legal process.
NFL, Falcons, and Pearce’s Response
Pearce, a former first-round pick who finished third in AP Defensive Rookie of the Year voting in 2025, has denied the allegations through his legal team, maintaining his innocence and urging the public to reserve judgment until the full story unfolds. The Atlanta Falcons acknowledged the arrest and said they were gathering information, while the NFL has indicated the case will be reviewed under its Personal Conduct Policy.
Despite his promising on-field performance — totaling 10.5 sacks last season — Pearce’s future with the team and in the league could be jeopardized by the legal troubles and Jackson’s willingness to testify, illustrating how off-field behavior can quickly overshadow professional accomplishments.
Public Reaction and Broader Context
Fans and commentators across social media have reacted strongly to Jackson’s filing and Pearce’s arrest. Many have voiced support for Jackson’s decision to cooperate with prosecutors, praising her willingness to participate in a legal process that often sees victims reluctant to testify. Others have discussed the broader implications for how domestic violence allegations involving professional athletes are handled by the legal system and their respective leagues.
The legal filing adds a layer of complexity to a case already capturing headlines, and it highlights the difficult choices victims face when navigating relationships with high-profile athletes. Whether Pearce’s case goes to trial and how Jackson’s testimony might shape its outcome remain to be seen, but her willingness to participate fully in the prosecution is a notable moment in the evolving story.
