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Adrian Peterson Reaches Settlement, Avoids Jail Time In Child Abuse Case

Veronica Elliot November 04, 2014 11:03 AM EST

Minnesota Vikings Running Back Adrian Peterson, who is currently facing charges of injury to child for punishing his four-year-old son with a switch. | (Photo: Reuters/Tom Lynn)

Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson has reportedly reached a plea deal in his child abuse case in Texas.

A report indicates that Peterson will pled no contest to a count of reckless assault. According to the Associated Press, the plea will not include any reference to violence against a child.

Peterson has been temporarily suspended from the Minnesota Vikings team after he was accused of child abuse in Montgomery, Texas after he beat his four-year-old son with a switch.

The plea deal reached this week allows the NFL player to avoid jail time. Instead, with his misdemeanor charges, Peterson will reportedly have to pay a $4,000 fine, lawyer fees and serve 80 hours community service.

"I truly regret this incident," Peterson said outside the courthouse on Tuesday, as reported by USA Today. "I stand here and I take full responsibility for my actions. I love my son more than anyone of you could manage, and I look forward to continuing my relationship with my child."

"I'm just glad this over and I can put this behind me, and me and my family can move forward," the running back added.

A source close to the NFL Players' Association told ESPN on Tuesday that the Minnesota Vikings may treat Peterson with the same punishment that they give to any player found guilty of a misdemeanor charge. The NFL player has reportedly missed eight games with his team due to his legal troubles and could play with them again as early as their upcoming game against the Chicago Bears on November 16.

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