Shawne Merriman Arrested, Lawyer Claims He Was Keeping Tila Tequila Safe

Our South Florida defense lawyers recently heard about an incident involving reality TV starlet Tila Tequila (real name Tila Nguyen) and San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merriman. Merriman allegedly tried to choke Nguyen when she tried to leave his home. She signed a citizen’s arrest warrant accusing him of battery and false imprisonment. Both are felonies.

Merriman was arrested on Sunday morning and claims he was trying to protect her, because he thought she was drunk and didn’t her to leave and hurt herself. Merriman statement said, “I in no way caused any harm to Ms. Nguyen, however, paramedics were called and she was examined but no injuries were reported.”

Merriman and his attorney expect that the football player will be found blameless, while Nguyen’s attorney predicts that will his story will be discredited. Prosecutors are still deciding whether to press charges.

Tila Tequila’s lawyer blasts Shawne Merriman’s denials, South Florida Sun Sentinel, September 9, 2009
Have you been arrested and charged with a crime? Our South Florida criminal defense lawyers can advise you on your legal options.