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Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr. faces a misdemeanor marijuana possession charge following an October traffic stop in Carmel, Indiana. Court documents outline the allegations, but the case has not been decided.
The charge adds another complication for Richardson during a difficult period for the Colts. The team is also dealing with organizational changes after a disappointing start to the season.
What police reported during Anthony Richardson’s traffic stop
According to court documents, a Carmel police officer stopped a black 2023 Dodge Charger on Oct. 12 near Springmill Boulevard and Silver Stream Drive. The vehicle had expired registration, and the registration was reportedly assigned to another vehicle.
As the officer approached, the officer allegedly detected the odor of marijuana. Richardson reportedly told police he had smoked in the car to avoid doing so in front of his children. He also allegedly acknowledged having a small amount of marijuana with him.
Richardson was asked to exit the vehicle and was handcuffed while police searched the car. According to the report, officers found a small mason jar containing a substance believed to be marijuana and an opened bag of THC-infused gummies. Both substances later tested positive for THC, the report states.
Richardson also received a citation for the expired registration. The marijuana possession charge remains an allegation, not a finding of guilt.
When is Anthony Richardson’s court date?
Prosecutors filed the misdemeanor charge on Oct. 19, one week after the traffic stop. Richardson waived an initial hearing that had been scheduled for Dec. 9.
A bench trial is expected in early January 2027. In a bench trial, a judge decides the case rather than a jury. However, the source reports conflicting dates of Jan. 2 and Jan. 4. The exact date should be confirmed through court records before publication.
The Indianapolis Colts had not responded to a request for comment when the original report was published.
Anthony Richardson’s NFL career faces more scrutiny
The Colts selected Richardson fourth overall in the 2023 NFL Draft out of the University of Florida. Since entering the league, he has thrown for approximately 2,400 yards, with 11 touchdowns and 13 interceptions, according to the supplied report.
His early NFL career has also been marked by accuracy concerns and injuries. The latest legal matter brings additional attention to the quarterback as he continues working to establish himself in Indianapolis.
Colts face wider challenges this season
The case comes amid broader changes within the organization. The supplied report states that Indianapolis fired general manager Chris Ballard earlier in the week following a 2-4 start. Ballard was the executive who drafted Richardson.
The article also identifies Richardson as the second Colts player to face legal trouble this season. Wide receiver Keenan Allen was reportedly charged with two misdemeanors following an August arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Richardson’s case remains pending. The court proceedings will determine how the misdemeanor charge is resolved.
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