Posted on Sat, May. 10, 2008

New details are emerging in support of Chicago Bears' running back Cedric Benson's claim that police mistreated him when he was arrested for boating while intoxicated last Saturday in Texas.

Testimony from an eyewitness, and photographs turned over to Benson's lawyer from Elizabeth Cartwright, a friend of Benson's, support the running back's version of events.

Toby Patch, who was not on the boat, claims he saw police "manhandling" Benson after taking him off the boat. "They ended up -- I don't know why -- but laid him on his back, I heard him say, `Please don't pepper-spray me, please don't pepper-spray me,' " Patch said. "It was uncalled for, it was ludicrous, no point for it."

Patch's version was similar to Cartwright's account.

A Lower Colorado River Authority police report said Benson was cocky, combative and smelling of alcohol. Benson's attorney, Sam Bassett, disputes that.

"I do not believe that Cedric was intoxicated. "I also am concerned that the force used by the officers, particularly the use of pepper spray, was not necessary."

Elsewhere

GREEN BAY: The Packers released Koren Robinson, 28, the latest setback for the receiver trying to resurrect his career after serving an NFL suspension and jail time.

Robinson had 21 catches for 241 yards in nine games last season. He also had 25 kickoff returns for 596 yards. -- Associated Press

NEW ENGLAND: Defensive back Willie Andrews, 24, entered a plea to a marijuana possession charge, but won't face prison time. Andrews admitted there was enough evidence to convict him at trial, but did not plead guilty.

Lowell District Court Judge Neil Walker continued the case for a year, during which time Andrews must speak to student athletes about the dangers of narcotics, pay a $1,000 fine and complete an NFL substance abuse program. -- AP