Darron Lee, a former linebacker in the NFL, has been indicted on a murder charge connected to his partner’s death.
Tuesday, a Hamilton County grand jury returned an indictment. A tampering with evidence charge was dismissed by prosecutors so they can focus in on the allegations that are more serious, according to Hamilton County District Attorney Coty Wamp per ESPN. (RELATED: Phil Mickelson Accused Of ‘Nonconsensual, Inappropriate’ Contact With Female Employee, Removed From Club: REPORT)
A first-degree murder conviction is being pursued by the state, which can bring a life sentence. Per Wamp, a decision will be made on whether or not to seek the death penalty in Lee’s case in the next few weeks.
It’s being alleged that Lee killed 29-year-old Gabriella Perpetuo in Feb. 2026. The cause of death for Perpetuo was listed by a medical examiner as numerous blunt force injuries, and 12 different injuries were listed on the autopsy report, which includes several stab wounds, hematomas and bone fractures.
Former #Jets first-round LB Darron Lee has been indicted on a murder charge in the death of his 29-year old girlfriend.
Prosecutors are seeking a first-degree murder conviction, which carries a life sentence. A decision on whether to pursue the death penalty is expected in the… pic.twitter.com/IQwAUak8Ca
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) June 11, 2026
Lee was on probation in Alachua County, Florida and Franklin County, Ohio when he was arrested after being charged in three different claimed assaults that involve a man, the mother of Lee and his child’s mother, according to court records per ESPN.
It’s being alleged by prosecutors that Lee asked ChatGPT how to obtain medical assistance without having to call the police. He questioned the AI platform whether or not a fall could result in two bruised eyes and “two stabby looking wounds,” per evidence that was presented in the courtroom.
Without bond, the 31-year-old Lee is still in the Hamilton County Jail.
Between 2016-20, Lee competed in 58 contests with the Buffalo Bills, New York Jets and Kansas City Chiefs. The former standout for the Ohio State Buckeyes was selected by the Jets in the 2016 NFL Draft with the 20th overall pick.