Broncos outside linebackers coach Michael Wilhoite has been accused of punching a police officer in the face at Denver International Airport on Sunday. Wilhoite, 38, faces a felony assault charge following the altercation. The incident occurred at the airport’s arrivals drop-off lane around 2:09 p.m. when Wilhoite parked his 2021 Ford Bronco, got out of the vehicle, and left it unattended, according to court records and a police affidavit.
Wilhoite Punches Officer After Confrontation, Taser Deployed as He Attempts to Leave
A uniformed Denver police officer, assigned to the area, approached Wilhoite when he returned to his vehicle. The officer informed him that leaving the car unattended was prohibited. Wilhoite allegedly responded by telling the officer to “shut the (expletive) up” twice. The situation escalated when Wilhoite approached the officer, and “bumped his chest” into him, which prompted the officer to shove him back.
Michael Wilhoite (NFL)According to the affidavit, Wilhoite then punched the officer in the face, causing the officer to fall to the ground. As Wilhoite tried to return to his car, the officer deployed a Taser, striking Wilhoite near his left hip and side. Wilhoite was briefly shocked by the Taser, but he eventually got into his car and drove away from the scene. The officer sustained visible injuries to his knees and reported jaw pain.
Wilhoite Appears in Court, Bond Set at $5,000 as Broncos Investigate Incident
Wilhoite was arrested and appeared in Denver County Court the following Monday in a yellow jail jumpsuit. He was not handcuffed and was seen talking to jail deputies before his hearing. Magistrate Arnie Beckman set Wilhoite’s bond at $5,000 and expressed concern over the violent nature of the incident. Beckman noted that the situation was a routine interaction that escalated into violence, which was troubling to the court.
Following the hearing, Wilhoite’s attorney, Stephen Burstein, chose not to comment but indicated that Wilhoite was expected to bond out of jail later that day. The Denver Broncos organization has acknowledged the arrest and stated they are gathering more information about the incident.