A civil lawsuit filed in Texas accuses Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice of a pattern of domestic abuse spanning nearly two years. The suit, filed on , alleges repeated assaults against Dacoda Jones, who claims she was pregnant during much of the alleged abuse.
The lawsuit, filed in Dallas County, details incidents occurring between December 2023 and July 2025, both in Texas and Missouri. Jones is seeking more than $1 million in damages, citing physical pain, mental anguish, physical impairment, disfigurement, medical expenses, and loss of earnings.
According to court documents, Rice allegedly strangled Jones in December 2023. The suit further claims a history of abusive behavior, alleging that Rice “grabbed, choked, strangled, pushed, thrown, scratched, hit, and headbutted Ms. Jones, as well as hit her with inanimate objects.” The accusations also include instances of Rice punching walls, destroying property, and locking Jones out of their apartment at night.
The Kansas City Chiefs have acknowledged awareness of the lawsuit and stated they are in communication with the National Football League. Messages to Rice’s agents and to Rice himself have not been immediately returned, according to reports.
The allegations come amidst a broader conversation about domestic violence and the responsibilities of professional sports organizations. While the NFL has implemented policies aimed at addressing domestic violence, the league has faced criticism for its handling of past cases involving players. The league’s involvement in this matter is expected to be closely scrutinized.
Rice’s legal counsel, Sean Lindsey, released a statement referencing a previous affidavit made by Jones on . Lindsey stated that in the affidavit, “Ms. Jones stated under penalty of perjury…that ‘Mr. Rice and I had a verbal argument, but he did not punch me.’” Lindsey indicated that they would allow the legal process to proceed without further comment. The lawsuit, however, makes no mention of the alleged October 9th incident, nor does it include any claim that Rice punched Jones.
It remains unclear whether law enforcement in Dallas or Kansas City were previously alerted to incidents of domestic violence at the couple’s residences. Records requests made by ESPN have so far yielded no results. The lack of prior police involvement, if confirmed, could raise questions about the reporting of domestic abuse and the challenges faced by victims in coming forward.
The case highlights the complexities of domestic violence litigation, particularly when involving high-profile individuals. Civil lawsuits differ from criminal prosecutions, requiring a lower burden of proof. While a criminal conviction requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt, a civil plaintiff needs only to demonstrate a preponderance of the evidence – meaning it is more likely than not that the alleged events occurred.
The allegations against Rice also raise questions about the potential impact on his career. The NFL has the authority to discipline players for conduct detrimental to the league, even in the absence of a criminal conviction. Potential penalties could range from fines and suspensions to termination of his contract.
The lawsuit’s filing comes at a sensitive time for the Kansas City Chiefs, as they prepare for the upcoming NFL season. The team’s response to the allegations and the outcome of the legal proceedings will likely be closely watched by fans, media, and the league itself.
Dacoda Jones’ attorney declined to comment on the case. The lawsuit is currently progressing through the Dallas County court system, and a trial date has not yet been set. The case is expected to draw significant media attention and could have lasting implications for all parties involved.
