The Colts’ safety, Rodney Thomas II, was having an exceptional year, until now! Being drafted last season, the ruthless safety has already shown exceptional potential, with 4 receptions, the most for a rookie since 2004. As the training camp approaches, the rookie safety might not have expected this outcome.
Back in May, news broke out about an individual from Pennsylvania who was accused of shooting to death a bald eagle. Almost two months later, the individual turns out to be none other than the safety’s 50-year-old father. The incident not only instigated criticism all over the internet but also the area where the eagle lived.
Rodney Thomas II’s father might face a year in prison
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The NFL safety’s father, Rodney Thomas, was reported to be indicted by a Pittsburgh federal grand jury earlier this week. However, the incident occurred back in May, with the additional details emerging only this week. As per an article by the NY Post, Thomas surrendered himself to the authorities following the incident. He was charged with the violation of the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and could face up to a $5000 fine and a year spent behind bars.
REPORT: Rodney Thomas, the father of Indianapolis #Colts defensive back Rodney Thomas II, has been arrested for allegedly fatally shooting a bald eagle in Pennsylvania, per the @nypost. pic.twitter.com/kJG7aRDGEw
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) July 23, 2023
The residents of the area where the bird has been residing for over two decades were outraged by the incident. The eagle was one of only two in that region, and the locals had affectionately named it ‘Sam’, after Disney’s Muppet Vision 3D. Furthermore, it’s also come to light that Thomas has been released on $10000 bail, and there haven’t been any comments made from either the Colts’ safety or the team.
Given that the eagle is a symbol of the country’s pride, the news has been heart-wrenching for fans. Many expressed their emotions on social media posts, while others seemed less concerned about the incident.
Fans demand justice over the bald eagle’s death
After the news broke out, fans were quick to express their frustration over the issue. One user commented on the post, showing his frustration over the issue, adding, “Whatever the penalty is for this, it is not severe enough.”
Another user commented on the possible duration of his sentence, commenting, “1000 years no chance for parole”
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One user was confused as to why an individual would do such a thing, adding, “What makes you want to kill a bald eagle”
Others weren’t even remotely interested in the news, commenting, “People are more outraged over a bird being shot and killed than scores of children. God Bless America.”
Lastly, a user tried to divert everyone’s attention, commenting, “Philly ain’t that bad bro, they got good sandwiches and nice buildings.“
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The case is yet to unfold in the coming months. Only time will tell if Thomas faces serious prison time or is slapped with a mere fine.
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