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Cam Sutton at Detroit Lions Practice Facility When Warrant Announced
Rod Wood discussed decision to release Cam Sutton.
The whereabouts of Cam Sutton has been uncertain since the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Department posted a social media message asking for help in locating him.
Sutton, a former Detroit Lions cornerback, was released by the organization last week after a warrant was issued for his arrest on allegations of domestic battery by strangulation on March 7. As of Monday at 6:00 p.m., he still had not entered police custody.
The organization, like everyone else, found out last Wednesday and issued a statement.
However, Lions' team president Rod Wood added some clarity to the situation during the NFL's annual meetings Monday.
Wood explained that Sutton was in Allen Park when the team found about about the warrant for Sutton's arrest, per Fox 2. Wood did not clarify who, but a member of the organization connected with Sutton while he was "unexpectedly" working out with the strength staff. It was encouraged that he seek legal counsel and turn himself in.
The veteran defensive back left the team's facility and has not communicated with the team since. On Thursday, he was released by the organization.
"We were learning it the same moment you guys were learning about the warrant," Wood said, via the Detroit Free Press. "Actually I was on a Zoom call with the league on another matter when it popped up on my phone. As soon as that call wrapped up, we kind of quickly convened and talked about it. We were able to reach Cam and talk about it, and suggested that he get counsel and do the right thing to turn himself in. And then after that, we met the rest of the day and then the following morning to decide to release him."
Wood added that he felt the decision to release Sutton was best given the legal situation as well as the fact that he hasn't cooperated with authorities.
Mike Tomlin, Sutton's coach during his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers, said he tried to reach out to the defensive back during his respective press conference Monday. When asked if he had contacted Sutton, Tomlin replied, "none of your business."
Sutton signed a three-year, $33 million deal with the Lions ahead of the 2023 season. He started all 17 regular season and three postseason games for the organization last year but struggled late in the year working against top wide receivers.
The Lions designated Sutton as a post-June 1 release.
