Ex-Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew charged with assault

Pittsburgh – Police say former Detroit Lions tight end Brandon Pettigrew was arrested in Pittsburgh for punching an officer after refusing to pay a limo driver.

Pettigrew, a free agent, is charged with two counts of aggravated assault, theft of services and public drunkenness.

Police say the 33-year-old refused to pay $97 for a limo ride to a downtown hotel early Monday.

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According to a complaint, when officers arrived Pettigrew became aggressive and punched one officer in the chest three times. Police allege he was visibly intoxicated.

The complaint says officers drew their stun guns but Pettigrew, who lives in Flint, Texas, complied and was handcuffed.

A message seeking comment from Pettigrew wasn’t immediately returned Monday.

Sean Howard, who has represented Pettigrew, says he has no comment.

Pettigrew last played for the Lions in 2015, appearing in eight games, with seven catches for 67 yards and one TD. He missed the 2016 season with an injury and was cut by the Lions after the season.