Updated 1: we’d written “arrested” originally when it was just a citation – making this even less of a story. (But we still totally want our clicks)
Update 2: he’s been given three days community service because he didn’t report it the court per requirements of his plea bargain. DA even said it was no big deal.
Jon Jones was arrested cited for a driving offense because he’s stupid. The former UFC LightHeavyweight Champion – and man who loves Jesus and apple pie – was arrested cited for driving without a license, and driving without proof of insurance and registration. It happened near his home in New Mexico.
Jones had entered a conditional plea of guilty for a hit and run that occurred last year, the results of which lead to him being stripped of his World Championship. The terms of his plea agreement are likely broad enough that this could be considered a violation, at which point he might face actual jail time.
But, that’s a decision requiring a number of levels. 1. The District Attorney would have to decide if they even want to bother petitioning The Court to find Jones in violation of his plea; 2. The Court/Judge would have to decide it actually was a violation.
Basically, if any normal person had this happen, they’d show up to court, present proof of insurance and registration (you can even get them after the fact and – at least in Illinois – be found in compliance), and life moves on. Worst case, you’d pay like a $150 fine or something but I’ve personally had a number of clients where they just walked out owing nothing. Because it’s such a minor, minor offense.
Jones being who he is, and the probation deal, maybe it becomes more. It’s genuinely just pure speculation. For all I know, he had a provisional license but just didn’t have it on him at the time. Often times, for driving related offenses, individuals are granted such a license because of the realities of life being: you can’t really function without being able to drive.
I’m sure Dana White is thrilled to hear about this, what with them having just announced that Jones would be challenging Daniel Cormier for the UFC LightHeavyweight Championship in April at UFC 197. Oh well, lie with dogs and you get fleas.
A practicing attorney for many years, Mike Coughlin doesn’t recommend you driving without a license but understands if you like to live life on the edge.
I like to live life on the edge. That’s why I sit directly on the toilet bowl. No seat required for me!