WNBA Star Rickea Jackson Files Notice to Testify in James Pearce Jr. Case After Alleged Vehicle Attack

WNBA star Rickea Jackson is making it clear she is prepared to participate fully in the legal process involving Atlanta Falcons defensive lineman James Pearce Jr.

A new filing in Miami-Dade County shows that Jackson’s attorneys formally notified the court that the WNBA player is willing to testify if the domestic violence case moves to trial. The filing also cites Marsy’s Law, which outlines protections for alleged victims in Florida, and asks the court to use every available resource to move the case forward quickly.

Pearce was arrested Saturday and now faces five felony charges. Authorities listed two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, along with aggravated stalking and fleeing or eluding law enforcement with lights and sirens. A pretrial stay-away order prohibits Pearce from contacting Jackson.

In the court document, Jackson’s attorneys, Gary F. Celetti and Wendy A.L. Beswick, wrote that she “remains cooperative and willing to testify at trial, if one is necessary.”

According to an arrest affidavit, Jackson told police she and Pearce recently ended a three-year relationship. She reported that he followed her in his vehicle and tried to enter her car while both were stopped at a red light. She told officers she sped away after he got out of his vehicle.

Investigators stated that Jackson said Pearce struck her vehicle from behind and later hit it head-on as she drove toward the Doral Police Department. Photos reportedly showed damage consistent with her account.

Police said Pearce initially stood outside his vehicle when officers arrived. An officer drew his weapon and ordered him to the ground. The report alleges Pearce then reentered his car, locked the door, and drove off, striking an officer in the knee. Authorities say he later crashed, attempted to flee on foot, and resisted arrest before being detained.

Pearce’s attorneys said he “maintains his innocence” and that the “full, complete story” has not yet come to light. They added that they plan to “vigorously” defend him as the case proceeds.