The Hobart-Lawrence Police Department announced it will not release the video of the domestic incident involving Green Bay Packers running back Josh Jacobs and his former girlfriend at this time. The department cited an active civil proceeding between Jacobs and the victim as the reason for withholding the footage.
Court Ruling Shapes Police Response
In September, Brown County Judge Marc Hammer denied the victim’s request to permanently seal the video. While Judge Hammer cleared the police to release records under Wisconsin’s Public Records Law, he also affirmed that the recordings remain subject to statutory restrictions until a court or law specifically authorizes disclosure.
“The department has determined that these recordings are subject to the applicable statutory restriction,” the department wrote in its response to media inquiries. “Accordingly, the recordings will be withheld while the restriction remains in effect, unless disclosure is subsequently authorized by law or directed by the court.”
What the Video Likely Shows
Police officials said the unreleased footage depicts the alleged battery that occurred in Jacobs’ garage, with the victim’s body pixelated to protect privacy. Jacobs was convicted of misdemeanor battery and criminal damage to property for the May incident at his Hobart home.
Impact on Jacobs’ NFL Status
Following the incident, the NFL placed Jacobs on the Commissioner’s Exempt List while the league conducts its own investigation into possible violations of the personal conduct policy. He missed the first six games of the season but has since rejoined the Packers roster.
The league’s investigation remains ongoing, and any findings could affect Jacobs’ standing with the team and the NFL.
Legal Context and Future Possibility of Release
Because the civil case is still active, the police department’s decision aligns with Wisconsin law, which allows agencies to withhold records that are part of ongoing litigation. Should the court later order the video’s release or lift the statutory restriction, the department indicated it would comply.
Local residents and media outlets have expressed interest in the footage, citing concerns about transparency and public safety. However, the department emphasized that protecting the victim’s privacy and respecting the legal process are paramount.
Community Reaction
Some community members have voiced criticism of the police department’s decision, arguing that the public deserves full access to the video given Jacobs’ high profile as a professional athlete. Others support the department’s stance, noting that releasing the video before the civil case concludes could prejudice the legal process and further harm the victim.
Both sides of the debate reflect broader conversations about how law‑enforcement agencies balance public transparency with legal obligations, especially when high‑profile individuals are involved.
Next Steps
The Hobart-Lawrence Police Department will continue to monitor the court’s rulings. Any future changes to the statutory restriction or a direct court order could lead to the video’s public release. Until then, the department maintains that the footage will remain withheld.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
