Mark Sanchez, the former NFL quarterback, is “still recovering” after being stabbed during an altercation with a grease truck driver in Indianapolis, according to his attorney’s statements in court on Wednesday.
The 38-year-old ex-Jets QB and current FOX Sports analyst won’t need to be present for a brief hearing that took place or for another scheduled hearing on December 2, as stated by Judge James Osborn.
Defense attorney Tim Delaney expressed gratitude for Sanchez’s release, noting that he is still in recovery from his injuries.
Sanchez has pleaded not guilty to several charges, including battery causing serious bodily injury, trespassing on a motor vehicle, and public intoxication, all related to the altercation on October 4 with 69-year-old Perry Toll.
According to court documents, Toll was parked at the loading dock of the Westin Hotel when Sanchez confronted him about moving his truck.
Toll reportedly used pepper spray against Sanchez, yet the former NFL player continued to attack, allegedly slamming Toll into walls and the ground.
Prosecutors indicated that in fear for his life, Toll drew a knife and stabbed Sanchez two or three times in the chest, prompting Sanchez to flee the scene.
Sanchez required surgery for a chest wound, while Toll also sustained injuries and was hospitalized. Images later surfaced showing Toll in a hospital bed, bloodied and connected to medical equipment.
A former judge assigned to the case recently withdrew their earlier ruling, though without explanation. The new judge, James Osborn, quickly set a trial date for December 11.
If found guilty, Sanchez could face up to six years in prison and a fine reaching $10,000.
Following his hospital admission, Sanchez expressed gratitude towards the surgeon who “saved my life,” mentioning that he is “slowly recovering” and anticipating a “long process.” However, he refrained from commenting on the ongoing lawsuit.
Toll has filed a lawsuit against Sanchez, claiming that the incident resulted in “severe and permanent injuries” to his head, jaw, and neck.
