Michael Wilhoite, the Denver Broncos’ outside linebackers coach, is facing a felony assault charge after allegedly attacking a police officer at Denver International Airport on Sunday. Court records show that Wilhoite was charged with second-degree assault on a peace officer following the incident, which has garnered significant attention.
Michael Wilhoite Punches Officer at Airport, Tased After Altercation, Escapes Scene
According to an affidavit reported by The Denver Post, Wilhoite was approached by an officer while parked in a drop-off lane. The officer informed him that he could not leave his vehicle unattended. In response, Wilhoite reportedly told the officer to “shut the (expletive) up” and then physically bumped his chest into the officer. After a brief altercation, Wilhoite allegedly punched the officer in the face.
Michael Wilhoite (NFL)The punch caused the officer to fall to the ground, but he quickly responded by using his taser. The officer struck Wilhoite in the left hip and side, but Wilhoite managed to drive away from the scene despite being tased. The officer reported experiencing jaw pain and visible injuries to his knees as a result of the altercation.
Michael Wilhoite Arrested After Airport Incident; Bond Set at $5,000 Following Court Hearing
Wilhoite was arrested and booked into the Denver jail on a no-bond hold after the incident. During a court hearing on Monday, his bond was set at $5,000. Magistrate Arnie Beckman expressed concern over the violence that erupted from what should have been a routine encounter, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Michael Wilhoite, 38, has been with the Broncos for two seasons as the outside linebackers coach. Before joining Denver, he worked with head coach Sean Payton as a defensive assistant and special teams assistant in 2019 and 2020. Additionally, Wilhoite served as the linebackers coach for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2021 and 2022. The Broncos have stated they are aware of the situation and are investigating the incident further, but have not made any comments on possible disciplinary actions.
