After a disappointing 2019-20 campaign, the struggles for the New York Jets have continued on into the offseason in the form of legal problems for one of their most promising young players. Defensive tackle Quinnen Williams was arrested Thursday night at LaGuardia Airport for criminal possession of a weapon according to Port Authority Police.
The weapon in question was a Glock 19 handgun, and Williams was arrested at the airport prior to boarding a flight at around 9:15 p.m. Williams does have a permit for the gun in his home state of Alabama, but the strict handgun possession laws in New York make his arrest a serious offense. Though the gun wasn’t loaded, Williams was carrying ammunition on him according to a statement obtained by ESPN.
Still only 22 years old, Quinnen Williams was coming off his rookie season with the New York Jets after being drafted third overall in last year’s draft. Williams played in 13 games for New York, compiling 2.5 sacks and 28 tackles.
Though possession of a handgun can be a minor offense in some states, the laws in New York carry much harsher penalties in comparison. Williams could be in more trouble than most people realize. Though the Glock was technically not loaded, Williams possessing ammunition in “close proximity” to the weapon means it could be deemed loaded. Possession of a loaded handgun in New York carries a minimum sentence of three and a half years in state prison.
The Jets are aware of Williams’ ongoing legal situation and will monitor it closely as the offseason progresses. New York Post’s Brian Costello relayed the following message from the Jets via Twitter.
Jets team spokesperson on Quinnen Williams: “We have been in contact with Quinnen Williams and are fully aware of the situation. We will have no additional comment as this is a pending legal matter.” #nyj
— Brian Costello (@BrianCoz) March 6, 2020
