Josh Jacobs files lawsuit to block release of altercation video

NFL running back Josh Jacobs has filed a civil lawsuit seeking a court order that would permanently prevent the release of video footage from a May 23 altercation that led to his no-contest plea on battery charges. Jacobs argues that the woman involved in the incident needs protection of her privacy, dignity, personal security, emotional well-being, and ability to safely participate in the criminal justice process. He contends that merely redacting names or faces would be insufficient, noting that advanced artificial intelligence could potentially identify her from body shape and other indicators.

Jacobs also claims that the video could expose private details of his residence, including the layout, entrances, exits, doors, windows, storage areas and security arrangements, which could be used to assess how his garage or home might be entered. The lawsuit aims to keep the footage from public disclosure, though the NFL has expressed interest in reviewing the video as part of its Personal Conduct Policy enforcement.

"The woman involved wants to protect her privacy, dignity, personal security, emotional well-being, and ability to participate safely in the criminal justice process," the filing states.

"Redaction limited to names or faces would not adequately protect her identity, and advanced artificial intelligence could be utilized to identify her based on her body shape and other indicia of her identity," the complaint adds.

"Release of the video would reveal private details of my home, including configuration, entrances, exits, doors, windows, storage areas, security arrangements, or other details that could be used to evaluate how the garage or residence might be entered," Jacobs' filing claims.