Roger Godell Reviews Plaxico Burress Gun Case

Gambling News - June 29, 2009 - Written by Glen

Instead of waiting until the trial before the Courts, the charges against Plaxico Burress are being brought under the NFL's microscope. Roger Goodell, current NFL Commissioner, has created a reputation for adjudication against transgressions by players, and is living up to that reputation by attempting to expedite Burress' case prior to his court date.

The NFL has a strict personal-conduct policy, and the possession of a firearm without a carry permit in a location where weapons are not permitted, located within a city that bans firearms in general,  is a crass violation of personal conduct. Burress netted the win for the Giants in Super Bowl XLII when they faced the Patriots with his now ever famous "Helmet catch." Burress had allegedly brought a concealed firearm into a night club in New York City, which misfired and put a bullet into his leg.

After a hospital visit, Burress turned himself in to face charges, and posted a $100,000 dollar bond. According to New York law, a mandatory three and a half year sentence should be imposed. The Giants suspended Burress during the '08 season for four games, and ultimately cut him lose between the seasons.

His court trial may not begin until after the 2009 season, but Goodell seeks to impose punishment as soon as possible. If the Commissioner decides to take up the cause, he could have a punishment in place before the '09 season even begins. Goodell had judged against free agent cornerback Adam Jones before he could reach trial, and has continuously stayed on stop of ensuring players are set right in the event of an infraction of the rules.

Now that Burress is a free agent, many teams are scouting to pick up the top notch receiver. Perhaps the delay in his signing comes from Goodell's attempt to pass judgement, as Burress could be suspended for an undetermined amount of time according to the rules and regulations in place. Goodell has indefinitely suspended players before, most notably Donte Stallworth, who was put out for vehicular manslaughter.