Ex-Dolphin gets domestic battery plea deal

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DAVIE, Fla., Sept. 21 (UPI) -- Prosecutors in Florida said former Miami Dolphin Chad Johnson pleaded no contest to a domestic battery charge and will serve one year of probation.

The State Attorney's Office said Friday Broward domestic violence Judge Ian Richards approved the no contest plea, which involves the defendant accepting punishment for the crime without admitting guilt, the South Florida Sun Sentinel reported Friday.

Johnson, 34, was arrested Aug. 11 at his home in Davie, Fla., on allegations of head-butting his wife, Evelyn Lozada, during an argument. Their divorce became official Wednesday.

Johnson, who had been competing for a roster spot as receiver for the Dolphins, was soon cut from the team and isn't on an NFL roster.

The former player was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to undergo batterers' intervention counseling and pay restitution for medical costs.