Shawne Merriman's Defensive Line? Concern Over Tila Tequila's "Intoxicated State"

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Shawne Merriman's Defensive Line? Concern Over Tila Tequila's "Intoxicated State"

Mon., Sep. 7, 2009 11:25 AM PDT by Megan Masters

AP Photo/Evan Agostini, Jason Merritt/Getty Images

San Diego Chargers linebacker Shawne Merrimen is attempting to sack any rumors surrounding his alleged attack on Tila Tequila.

In his first response to Saturday's arrest over an altercation with his racy reality girlfriend, Merriman released a statement to FOXSports.com, saying that he "looks forward to clearing [his] name regarding these false allegations."

According to the NFL star: "On September 6, 2009 the San Diego Sheriff's Department responded to a citizen's complaint that was initiated by Tila Nguyen (aka Tila Tequila). I was taken into custody based upon that complaint.

"At the time, I was concerned about her welfare given the intoxicated state she appeared to be in and I encouraged her to stay until safe transportation could be provided," states Merriman.

The Chargers LB continues, citing concern for his girlfriend's well being as the cause of the scuffle: "We would all do our best to help a friend if we considered their actions to be detrimental to their personal safety. I in no way caused any harm to Ms. Nguyen, however, paramedics were called and she was examined but no injuries were reported. She was released and has since returned to Los Angeles, California."

As for whether Merriman will face criminal charges, the footballer appears to be confident about the future...

"There have been no charges filed against me. I want to thank the San Diego Sheriff's Department for their professionalism. I will continue to cooperate fully with the Department, and I look forward to clearing my name regarding these false allegations," says Merriman, concluding his statement by looking forward to the right-around-the-corner NFL season. "I want to put this behind me so I can continue to focus on a successful season for the San Diego Chargers."

Both Tequila and her rep had declined to comment on the situation thus far, but Nguyen tweeted in response to Merriman's allegations, saying: "I am allergic to alcohol. It has been publicly known for years. That is how I got the name Tila "Tequila" cuz the irony. I cant drink"

Following Saturday's alleged altercation, Merriman spent two and a half hours in police custody before being released on $58,000 bail.

The San Diego County District Attorney is still reviewing the evidence to decide whether criminal charges will be pressed, while Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith released a statement saying, "It's disappointing to hear about the issue involving Shawne Merriman. We'll continue to monitor the situation and let the legal process run its course.''

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