Kansas City Chiefs defensive backs coach Dave Merritt has been officially charged with misdemeanor domestic battery in Johnson County, Kansas.
The charges were filed by the local district attorney’s office following a reported incident involving the veteran coach.
Legal documents indicate that Merritt is accused of causing bodily harm to his daughter.
Specific details surrounding the circumstances of the alleged altercation have not yet been disclosed to the public.
The Kansas City Chiefs organization issued a brief statement on Thursday acknowledging the legal situation.
Team officials confirmed they are aware of the arrest but have declined to provide any further commentary at this stage.
Merritt was scheduled to make his first appearance in court on Thursday afternoon to address the allegations.
The 54-year-old coach has built a distinguished reputation over several decades in the National Football League.
Before moving into the coaching ranks, Merritt played as a linebacker at the professional level for several seasons.
Since joining the Chiefs staff in 2019, he has been credited with significantly improving the team's secondary.
His professional resume is highlighted by five Super Bowl championships earned with both the Chiefs and the New York Giants.
Merritt is widely considered one of the most effective defensive backs coaches currently working in professional football.
The NFL typically reviews incidents of this nature under its comprehensive personal conduct policy.
It is currently unclear whether the league or the Chiefs will implement immediate disciplinary measures.
The timing of the charges coincides with the team's ongoing offseason preparations and organized activities.
Any potential absence of a senior position coach could create challenges for the defending champions' defensive unit.
Merritt’s primary responsibilities include the development of young talent and the strategic management of the defensive backfield.
The legal process in Johnson County is expected to unfold over the coming weeks as more evidence is presented.
Domestic battery charges are treated with significant gravity by law enforcement and the judicial system in Kansas.
The final resolution of this legal matter could have lasting implications for Merritt’s long-term career in the NFL.
Further updates from the court are anticipated as the proceedings move into the next phase of the judicial process.