New England Patriots: Duron Harmon caught smuggling drugs
New England Patriots safety Duron Harmon has been caught attempting to smuggle drugs into another country.
The New England Patriots have had a mixed bag thus far this offseason. They have lost a few players in free agency, but have added some as well. While they have suffered some big losses in free agency, which is expected, an unexpected loss may have just occurred.
Safety Duron Harmon has been caught smuggling drugs out of the United States and attempting to bring them to Costa Rica. Harmon was denied entry into Costa Rica after arriving from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He was briefly detained before being sent back to the United States.
Harmon was caught by airport police with quite a large amount of marijuana on him. According to the Costa Rica Star, the airport police found 58 grams of cannabis inside a can of ice tea. In addition, they would another 4.3 grams of marijuana compressed into four glass containers. Three pipes with cannabis oil and a THC candy.
Irving Malespin, the director of the Fiscal Control Police, released a statement in regards to the situation.
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"“This involved a professional NFL player, who tried to come into the country carrying marijuana. He has sent back to US territory. It is important to highlight the work of different police bodies, who carry out important operations in different areas of the country. We want to prevent undesirable people from entering the country.”"
The Patriots also shared a statement on the situation.
"“We are aware of the situation involving Duron Harmon Friday night in Costa Rica,” the Patriots said in a statement. “He has since returned to the U.S. and we are seeking to gain more information. At this time, we have no further update.”"
In addition to the statement shared by the organization, Harmon issued an apology on his Instagram account.
Harmon was a third-round pick, No. 91 overall, out of Rutgers in 2013 by New England. He has spent his entire five-year career with the Patriots. He has missed only one game in his career, as he has grown into a bigger role with the team every season.
In 79 games, 15 of which have been starts, Harmon has totaled 85 tackles, 29 assists on tackles, 11 interceptions and 20 passes defended. In 2017 Harmon set career highs with four interceptions and seven passes defended. He recorded an interception against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl 52.
Harmon’s status with the team is now up in the air. New England should operate under the assumption that Harmon will be suspended for a period of time by the league. Harmon is facing some serious charges, and it would be surprising if he does not face any disciplinary action.
Right now, New England has Devin McCourty and Patrick Chung atop their safety depth chart. Jordan Richards, Nate Ebner and Brandon King round out the safeties the Patriots have.
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It will be interesting to see what New England does at the safety spot the remainder of the offseason. It would not be a surprise to see the organization add another player there, as Harmon’s playing future is unknown at this time.