MINNEAPOLIS — Adrian Peterson, a name that resonates with Minnesota Vikings fans, is once again in the headlines, but this time, it’s for troubling reasons. The former superstar running back was arrested early Friday morning on allegations of driving while intoxicated, adding to a series of legal challenges he’s faced in recent years.
According to Hennepin County records, the 40-year-old was booked into jail around 5:15 a.m. after being pulled over by a Minnesota State Patrol trooper. The incident occurred after Peterson was clocked driving his Audi Q5 at 83 mph in a 55 mph zone. This took place on southbound Highway 77 near 66th Street around 3:20 a.m., a reminder of the risks that accompany high speeds, especially late at night.
Peterson’s situation is further complicated by his legal history, which paints a complex picture of a player whose off-field issues have often overshadowed his remarkable on-field accomplishments. Most notably, he faced felony child abuse charges back in 2014 after using a switch on one of his children as a form of discipline. More recently, he has been involved in numerous court cases revolving around missed child support payments and disputes over assets related to a substantial debt reported to be around $12 million.
On the night before his arrest, Peterson was spotted at the Vikings draft party at U.S. Bank Stadium, a venue that once hosted some of his greatest moments as a player. His name was synonymous with power and speed during his decade-long tenure with the Vikings after being drafted from Oklahoma in 2007. Following his release from Minnesota due to salary cap considerations, Peterson’s career took him to various teams across the NFL, including stints with New Orleans, Arizona, Washington, Detroit, Tennessee, and Seattle.
Currently, Peterson is out on a $4,000 bond, with a court appearance scheduled for May 9. As fans remember his explosive playing style and iconic performances, there is a palpable concern for what lies ahead for the former MVP, both in the legal realm and in his personal life.
