49ers’ Foster charged with trio of felonies

The Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office filed charges against 49ers linebacker Reuben Foster Thursday in relation to his February arrest for a domestic violence incident in Los Gatos.

According to a press release sent out by the District Attorney’s Office, Foster has been charged with domestic violence with an allegation to inflict great bodily injury, forcefully attempting to prevent the victim from reporting a crime and the possession of an assault weapon.

In the same release, prosecutor Kevin Smith said:

“Our focus is on holding accountable those who hurt their intimate partners. Our Office handles between four and five thousand domestic violence cases each year. We hope this case illuminates the tragic regularity of the rest.”

Along with formal charges, more details surrounding the incident have emerged including the allegation that Foster struck his 28-year-old girlfriend eight to 10 times in the head resulting in extensive bruising and a ruptured ear drum.

The 49ers, in response to the District Attorney’s Office’s actions, released a statement of their own regarding Foster’s situation:

“The 49ers organization is aware of today’s disturbing charges regarding Reuben Foster. We will continue to follow this serious matter. Reuben is aware that his place in our organization is under great scrutiny and will depend on what is learned through the legal process.”

If convicted, Foster could serve up to 11 years in prison according the District Attorney’s Office.

As of now, Foster will remain on the 49ers roster but the league office is expected to take action in the form of a suspension. Based on previous domestic violence incidences within the league, Foster may be sidelined for at least six games if not more considering the severity of the allegations.