Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon has been found not guilty of aggravated menacing charges stemming from a road rage incident earlier this year. The verdict was delivered by Hamilton County judge Gwen Bender, who stated that the prosecutors had not presented sufficient evidence to prove the charge. The incident allegedly occurred in late January, just before the Bengals were set to play in a playoff game against the Buffalo Bills.

According to reports, Mixon was accused of brandishing a gun during a dispute with a woman named Ashley Creek. It was alleged that he threatened to shoot her in the face after she gave him an obscene gesture. However, Mixon's attorney argued that Creek did not believe she was at risk of serious harm, which is required under Ohio law to constitute aggravated menacing.

The trial lasted four days, longer than anticipated, as more evidence was discovered during the investigative process. Ultimately, Judge Bender ruled in favor of Mixon, stating that the prosecution had not met the standard of reasonable doubt. Following the verdict, Mixon is expected to return to practice without facing any punishment from the NFL.

The Bengals organization released a statement expressing their satisfaction with the resolution of the case. They highlighted Mixon's contributions to the team, both on and off the field, and expressed their excitement for the upcoming season.

Mixon, who has spent his entire NFL career with the Bengals, had a successful 2022 campaign, appearing in 14 games and rushing for 814 yards with seven touchdowns. He had a career-best season in 2021, rushing for 1,205 yards and scoring 13 touchdowns. The 27-year-old running back has been a Pro-Bowler and has garnered popularity among his peers and fans alike.

In addition to the road rage incident, Mixon has also been named in a civil lawsuit involving the alleged provision of an assault rifle to his sister's boyfriend, which resulted in the shooting of a teenager. The details of this incident remain under investigation.

Mixon's agent, Peter Schaffer, expressed his belief in Mixon's innocence and stated that the verdict vindicates his client. He emphasized that Mixon's focus will now return to football, putting this legal matter behind him.