Marcell Ozuna, Atlanta Braves outfielder, has agreed to participate in a diversion program that could lead to his domestic violence case being dismissed.
After being charged with assaulting his wife, Ozuna accepted the pretrial resolution on Thursday. This was more than three years after he was arrested. The misdemeanor charges against Ozuna include simple assault and family violence battery. However, Simone Hylton, Fulton County deputy prosecutor, announced Thursday that the charges would be dropped if Ozuna met the conditions within six months.
Hylton stated that Ozuna was placed under six-month supervision and must complete a 24-week family intervention program. This includes anger management courses and psychological assessments. He must also complete 200 hours community service, abstain from using illegal drugs, and not have any contact with his wife.
Hylton stated that the six-month supervision would end after three months, if Ozuna meets all requirements by the deadline.
"Hopefully once it's completed, I won't see you again," Fulton County Magistrate Judge Brandy Brooks told Ozuna over a Zoom call, according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Ozuna's next court date is Jan. 13. Michael LaScala, Ozuna's attorney, stated to the Journal-Constitution, that the pretrial diversion program was a "fair resolution" for both the state of Illinois and his client.
Officers in Sandy Springs, Atlanta, arrested Ozuna, a 30-year-old man, after they received a 911 call and witnessed Ozuna attack Genesis. The initial charges against Ozuna included felony strangulation. However, prosecutors dropped that felony charge in July.
LaScala stated Thursday that Ozuna shouldn't have been charged with any felony. He told the Journal-Constitution that Ozuna is looking forward to "putting this behind him."
Major League Baseball could still suspend Ozuna for a lengthy time. Major League Baseball is currently reviewing Ozuna's case under the joint domestic abuse policy between MLB and Major League Baseball Players Association. After a strong first season in 2020 with Atlanta, Ozuna signed a new four-year deal worth $65 million.
Ozuna was not able to play since he sustained injuries in his fingers playing against Boston on May 25, just four days before his arrest. Since May 28, he has been on the 10-day disabled list.
