Ex-Broncos coach Michael Wilhoite could avoid prosecuation after alleged police assault

Yahoo

12-03-2025

DENVER (KDVR) — Former Denver Broncos linebacker coach Michael Wilhoite could avoid prosecution after allegedly punching a Denver police officer at Denver International Airport.
According to the Denver District Attorney's Office, Wilhoite is facing charges of assaulting a peace officer, obstructing a peace officer and criminal mischief, but he's being considered for a diversion program that's an alternative to the traditional court process for eligible first-time offenders.
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The diversion program includes treatment services and teaching skills that work to prevent further contact with law enforcement. It's focused around rehabilitation versus punishment and requires a minimum of 30 hours of community service, complete restitution and for the client to remain crime free.
If completed, the case would be sealed and Wilhoite would avoid prosecution, but Wilhoite needs approval from the victim first. If it's not completed, the client would resume prosecution. The DA said it's still waiting to hear from the victim in this case, if it's not approved, the DA will continue criminal prosecution.
Wilhoite is currently facing charges after he was arrested for allegedly punching a police officer on Feb. 23. According to the police affidavit, Wilhoite left his vehicle unattended in a drop-off lane at DIA and was confronted by a police officer when he returned.
According to the probable cause statement, the officer told the then-assistant coach that he couldn't park there, to which Wilhoite allegedly responded 'shut the (expletive) up.' The incident escalated when Wilhoite allegedly approached the officer and bumped into him with his chest. The officer then allegedly shoved Wilhoite and Wilhoite punched the officer in the face.
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The affidavit said the officer had visibly injured knees and moderate pain in his jaw. The statement said the officer used his Taser and struck Wilhoite as he got into his car and drove away. An hour later, Wilhoite was arrested.
Wilhoite joined the Broncos' staff in 2023 after working for head coach Sean Payton in New Orleans in 2019 to 2020. He was the Los Angeles Chargers' linebackers coach from 2021 to 2022.
Payton confirmed with FOX31 that Wilhoite was later fired.
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