The National Football League announced Friday that Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Tyreek Hill won't face punishment over allegations of child abuse after an investigation revealed he did not violate the league's personal conduct policy.
Hill was first suspended on April 25 by the Chiefs after excerpts from conversations he'd had with his then-fiancee, Crystal Espinal, were aired on KCTV5-TV. The excerpts included Espinal accusing Hill of breaking the arm of their 3-year-old son. Another station, KCSP-AM broadcast the full 11-minute conversation in which Hill denied abusing his son and Espinal.
In a statement, the NFL said the investigation was "based on the evidence presently available."
"In conducting our investigation, we have taken great care to ensure that we do not interfere with the county's proceedings or compromise the privacy or welfare of the child in any way," the statement read. "The information developed in the court proceeding is confidential and has not been shared with us, and the court has sealed all law enforcement records. Local law enforcement authorities have publicly advised that the available evidence does not permit them to determine who caused the child's injuries."
According to a statement from the Kansas City Chiefs, Hill will be allowed to attend the club's "training camp and participate in all club activities."
"Based on the information provided to us by the league, we have decided it is appropriate for Tyreek to return to the team at the start of training camp," a statement from the Chiefs read. "The club fully supports the conditions for return laid out by the league and will continue to monitor any new developments in the case. We are glad to welcome Tyreek back to the team and look forward to the start of training camp next week."
Hill released a statement stating that the allegations were false and praised the NFL for its decision.
"The last few months have been very difficult for me, especially as a father. The false allegations originally reported in March were highly publicized and involved the care of my son. I am grateful for so many things and grateful for so many people who have supported me during this challenging time. I fully respect and accept the NFL's decision."
"To the fans, friends, and family that I have made in Kansas City: I love you and thank you for your continued support."
"To the NFL, Commissioner Goodell and everyone who assisted in this investigation: thank you for your time and for conducting a thorough investigation. I will not let you down."
"I can assure you that I will continue to work to be the person, player, and teammate that you envisioned me to be."
"To my children, my beautiful children: I love you all dearly and I promise you all that I will continue to strive to be the best father, the best friend, the best role model, and the best mentor that I can be. I love you all."
Hill pleaded guilty to domestic assault and battery after allegedly choking his then-fiancee while he was still in college in 2014, which led to his dismissal from the Oklahoma State Football team.
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