Former Chiefs Player Isaiah Buggs Found Guilty of Animal Cruelty Charges

Tuscaloosa, Ala. - Former Kansas City Chiefs defensive lineman Isaiah Buggs has been convicted on two counts of misdemeanor animal cruelty charges. The verdict was reached by Tuscaloosa County District Judge Joanne Jannik on July 19, and Buggs was sentenced to a year of hard labor. However, he is only required to serve 60 days, with the remaining period suspended for two years, contingent upon his conduct during that time.

As part of his sentence, the 27-year-old athlete is prohibited from owning or being in the presence of firearms, as well as dogs or cats. These restrictions were implemented following Buggs' second arrest in Alabama, which took place on June 24. He was apprehended on charges of domestic violence/burglary and was subsequently released on $5,000 bail, according to records from the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff's Office.

Buggs, a former player for the University of Alabama, had signed a contract worth $1,292,500 with the Kansas City Chiefs for the upcoming season. However, the team released him from his contract just eight days after his most recent arrest.

During his professional career, Buggs played for the Pittsburgh Steelers for three seasons and subsequently joined the Detroit Lions for the past two seasons. He has accumulated 89 tackles and two sacks throughout his career, having started 23 games and appearing in a total of 56.

The conviction on animal cruelty charges and subsequent sentence have added further legal and personal consequences for Isaiah Buggs, leaving his future in football uncertain.