Saints notebook: Jonathan Vilma's arrest

New Orleans Saints middle linebacker Jonathan Vilma, who was arrested for reckless driving and resisting arrest last week in Miami, plans to challenge the charges, according to agent Mitch Frankel.

Vilma, a former University of Miami player who lives in Miami in the offseason, was booked in Miami-Dade County Jail after the 3 p.m. incident and was released on $6,500 bond seven hours later, according to a police report.

Police said Vilma was seen in his Range Rover weaving through traffic. He also ran a red light and was arrested after an exchange with police and also refusing to move away from his vehicle, the report said.

"When it occurred, he didn't know why he was pulled over," said Frankel, who added that no alcohol, drugs or firearms were involved. "Clearly he's going to challenge the charges and he doesn't agree with them."

Saints spokesman Greg Bensel told the New Orleans Times-Picayune that the team was aware of the incident and also said no alcohol was involved.

Vilma, who led the Saints in tackles and was their top defensive player, could become an unrestricted free agent this spring. But the Saints say they want to re-sign him.

(thenewstar.com)