By Keith Idec
Multiple media outlets reported Tuesday that Jermell Charlo was arrested May 18 in Dallas and charged with one felony count of domestic violence.
Charlo trains at Derrick James’ gym in Dallas, where he was preparing at that time for his title defense against Austin Trout on June 9 in Los Angeles. According to ESPN.com, Charlo allegedly attempted to choke Jazmyne Olison, then his girlfriend, in an incident that is believed to have occurred May 17.
Houston’s Charlo, 28, posted bail of $20,000 and was released after he was booked into Dallas County Jail the afternoon of May 18. A grand jury indictment June 19 alleges Charlo squeezed Olison’s neck, forced her against a fence, a floor and a railing, and pulled her hair.
Charlo has been charged with one felony count of assault on a family member or house member with intent to impede circulation, ESPN.com reported.
Olison also filed a civil order of protection against Charlo on June 14. A preliminary hearing has been scheduled for August 1, which might require Charlo’s attendance.
Charlo’s Dallas-based attorney, Mike Howard, maintained Charlo’s innocence Tuesday in an interview with ESPN.com.
“Jermell is not guilty and is looking forward to his day in court,” Howard said. “The evidence in this case is clear and conclusive, and doesn’t support these allegations. In this day and age, it’s so important to let all the facts come out before making judgments. We look forward to those facts coming out in court.”
Charlo (31-0, 15 KOs), the twin brother of WBC interim middleweight champion Jermall Charlo, doesn’t have a fight scheduled. He dropped Trout twice in their 12-round fight last month and beat Trout (31-5, 17 KOs) by unanimous decision to retain his WBC super welterweight title at Staples Center.
Keith Idec is a senior writer/columnist for BoxingScene.com. He can be reached on Twitter @Idecboxing.