The criminal charges Leighton Vander Esch’s father, Darwin, had been facing related to an alleged domestic violence incident got a major update this week.
He was arrested in Idaho this past December on charges that included felony attempted strangulation.
Darwin Vander Esch was arrested for felony attempted strangulation and cited for misdemeanor domestic battery and misdemeanor intentional destruction of a telecommunication device.
The charges were dismissed last Thursday.
“She stated that she is not in fear of the defendant,” officials wrote in a motion to dismiss the matter. “And for the sake of family unity she informed your movant she wanted the charges dismissed.”They added, “[There have] been no problems or incidents between the defendant and the victim since the day these charges occurred.”
Leighton Vander Esch, who retired due to injuries, has never publically commented on his father’s arrest.
The former Cowboys linebacker was a walk-on at Boise State and eventually became Dallas’ first-round pick in the 2018 draft. Over his six seasons, Leighton Vander Esch made 469 tackles, 3.5 sacks, forced three fumbles, and made three interceptions.
He was a Pro Bowler in 2018 as a rookie and was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team that same year.
Leighton Vander Esch’s Mother Filed For Divorce
Leighton Vander Esch #55 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrates (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
Darwin Vander Esch was arrested on December 1 in Idaho after allegedly strangling Sandra Vander Esch during a heated altercation.
The incident reportedly began at a bar where the couple argued before escalating at their home. Darwin was accused of placing his hands around Sandra’s throat for approximately 10-15 seconds, “pushing and squeezing” until she freed herself.
Sandra was also pushed to the ground during the altercation and later locked out of the house.
Just one day after the incident, the mother of Vander Esch filed for divorce, signaling the end of their long-standing marriage amid the serious allegations.
