Seahawks: Lynch accusation 'bogus'
RENTON, Wash. -- The Seattle Seahawks sent out a one-sentence statement Tuesday saying they believe the alleged assault accusation involving running back Marshawn Lynch is "bogus."
"While we maintain the utmost respect for the investigative process, after speaking with Marshawn, we are comfortable these accusations are bogus," the statement read.
The Seahawks had no other comment on the situation. The Bellevue (Washington) Police Department sent out a news release Monday stating Lynch was under investigation over an alleged assault and personal property damage claim.
Seahawks officials were told the investigation could take 72 hours, but team officials felt confident Tuesday in releasing the statement that the accusations are false.
The Bellevue PD on Tuesday afternoon told ESPN's Ed Werder that the investigation is not complete, but ongoing, and that it is a high priority for the department. The police declined to comment on whether they have interviewed Lynch, or plan to do so, saying they are protecting the integrity of their investigation.
Lynch, 28, was at practice Tuesday morning but did not talk to reporters.
He missed the first eight days of training camp after holding out for changes in his contract, which is starting the third year of a $30 million deal.
Lynch returned after the Seahawks added $500,000 from 2015 salary to his 2014 money, along with guaranteeing $1 million in bonus incentives for 2014. That raised his 2014 base salary from $5 million to $6.5 million, but team sources said Lynch wanted an additional $5 million in 2014.
