Bears defensive tackle Henry Melton was arrested early Sunday morning in Grapevine, Texas after an incident at a bar and is now facing misdemeanor assault and public intoxication charged.
According to Grapevine police Sgt. Robert Eberling, Melton was arrested at 1:45 a.m. at Chill Sports Bar in downtown Grapevine after an altercation involving staff members and Melton, who was asked to leave the bar.
“He struck a staff member,” Eberling said. “But no one was seriously hurt.”
Melton allegedly punched the bar’s manager and bit his arm, Eberling said. Four staff members also restrained Melton until police arrived.
Eberling said Melton was cooperative upon his arrest. A booking photo from Grapevine police showed Melton with a bloody nose and abrasions to his left cheek and forehead. Melton declined medical attention for a cut on his nose, Eberling said.
Melton posted $1,000 bond for the assault charge and a $210 bond for public intoxication. The charges require separate court dates. His assault charge is Class A misdemeanor and a state offense. The public intoxication charge is a Class C misdemeanor that will be handled in the municipal court for Grapevine, Eberling said.
Melton, 27, attended Grapevine High School and played at the University of Texas. Melton, a first-time Pro Bowler in 2012, is on injured reserve after tearing his left anterior cruciate ligament Sept. 22 against the Steelers.
Melton is a free agent after this season. He agreed to play out the 2013 season under an $8.45 million franchise tag. Melton, a fourth-round pick in 2009, has 15 ½ sacks over this career, starting 32 of 48 games.
“We are aware of the reports regarding Henry Melton,” the Bears said in a statement. “We are currently gathering information to learn more about the circumstances surrounding the arrest.”
Jordan Woy, Melton’s agent, said via email that he was “looking into” Melton’s arrest.
Contributing: AP
