AB Seeks Case Dismissal Citing ‘Stand Your Ground’ Law
Former NFL player Antonio Brown has filed a motion to dismiss a second-degree attempted murder charge against him, citing Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law. This legal motion was submitted on Monday but became public through his lawyer, Mark Eiglarsh, on Saturday.
Incident Overview
The charge stems from a gunfire incident that occurred on May 16, 2025, outside an amateur boxing match in Miami. Following this event, Brown, who is now 37 years old, spent nearly six months in Dubai, UAE, before being extradited to the U.S. He returned to Miami in November 2025, where he pleaded not guilty during his arraignment.
Legal Arguments
The defense argues that Brown’s actions were justified because he believed he was in imminent danger from the alleged victim, Zul-Qarnain Kwame Nantambu. The motion states, “Brown reasonably believed that the alleged victim intended to cause him serious harm.”
- Extradition: Brown was extradited by U.S. marshals after his time in Dubai.
- Charges: Facing up to 30 years in prison if convicted.
- Key Law: Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law eliminates the duty to retreat before using deadly force in certain instances.
Background of the Case
Cooper, attorney for Nantambu, criticized the motion, labeling it a “farcical reimagining” of the events. Brown’s motion indicates a pattern of previous violence, including an alleged jewelry theft incident involving Nantambu in Dubai, which resulted in Nantambu spending 30 days in jail.
According to police reports, after Brown was attacked by Nantambu, he attempted to retreat to his car. However, he reportedly punched Nantambu and continued to engage him, leading to Brown allegedly chasing Nantambu and firing at him. Security footage and social media videos captured Brown holding a firearm just before the shots were fired.
- Claim of Self-Defense: Brown asserts he fired “warning shots” to avoid hitting Nantambu.
- Counterargument: The prosecution argues that Brown intended to shoot Nantambu, as stated by Cooper during a November hearing.
Current Status
As of November 2025, Brown was released on a $25,000 bail and is currently under house arrest, monitored by a GPS ankle device. Having spent 12 years in the NFL, he played his last season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after a notable career primarily with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The outcome of this case could significantly impact Brown’s future, both personally and professionally. The legal proceedings surrounding the use of Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law will be closely monitored by the public and media alike.
