Former Broncos outside linebackers coach Michael Wilhoite may avoid prosecution for allegedly punching a police officer in the face at the drop-off line at Denver International Airport if he’s accepted into a diversion program.
Wilhoite is being considered for the program, but prosecutors need the victim’s permission before moving forward, Denver District Attorney’s Office spokesperson Matt Jablow said Tuesday.
Wilhoite, 38, was charged with second-degree assault after he allegedly punched a uniformed Denver Police Department officer who told him he couldn’t leave his SUV unattended in the DIA drop-off line on the afternoon of Feb. 23.
According to court records, Wilhoite twice told the officer to “shut the (expletive) up” and bumped his chest into the officer. The officer shoved Wilhoite back and Wilhoite then punched him in the face, according to police.
The officer fell to the ground and fired his Taser at Wilhoite as he was getting back into his car, hitting him near his left hip and side. Wilhoite was shocked for a few seconds and then drove away, according to police. The officer reported injuries to his knees and pain in his jaw.
The Denver Broncos fired Wilhoite last week over the incident.
The diversion program is an alternative to the court system for adults and juveniles with no criminal history and focuses on rehabilitation through treatment, therapy and other interventions, according to the DA’s office. Once diversion is complete and all restitution is paid, the case is sealed.
People who do not complete the diversion program are prosecuted on their original charges.
Wilhoite is eligible because he is a first-time offender and charged with a class 4 felony, Jablow said.
He is set to appear in court May 3.
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