49ers Star Reuben Foster Charged With Felony Domestic Violence

SANTA CLARA (KPIX) — San Francisco 49ers linebacker Reuben Foster, a young star who was viewed as a key blocking block for the team's defense, was charged Thursday with felony domestic violence and possession of an assault weapon, prosecutors announced.

The Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office said the charges stem from an alleged attack on his live-in girlfriend at the couple's Los Gatos home on Feb. 11.

Prosecutors said Foster was charged with three felonies — domestic violence with an allegation that he inflicted great bodily injury, forcefully preventing a victim from reporting a crime and illegal possession of an assault weapon.

The 49ers released a statement after the charges were announced:

"The 49ers organization is aware of today's disturbing charges regarding Reuben Foster. We will continue to follow this serious matter. Reuben is aware that his place in our organization is under great scrutiny and will depend on what is learned through the legal process."

The 28-year-old is also charged with misdemeanor possession of a large caliber weapon. If found guilty, he could be sentenced to 11 years in prison.

"Our focus is on holding accountable those who hurt their intimate partners," said deputy DA Kevin Smith in a prepared statement. "Our office handles between four and five thousand domestic violence cases each year. We only hope that this case illuminates the tragic regularity of the rest."