Former mixed martial arts competitor Casey Kenney has been released on a $10,000 bond following his arraignment in Maricopa County Court, Arizona. Kenney entered a plea of not guilty to multiple charges stemming from an alleged incident in July involving domestic violence.
The 32-year-old athlete, who previously competed in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), faces serious accusations, including kidnapping – a class 2 felony – along with several misdemeanor charges. However, the court found no probable cause for an aggravated assault charge related to impeding breathing, as there was insufficient evidence to support claims that the alleged victim’s breathing was compromised.
According to court documents, the incident reportedly occurred between July 21 and 22, 2024, at a private residence. The allegations suggest a prolonged altercation resulting in various injuries to the alleged victim, identified as Jasmine Mendez.
Kenney’s release comes with stringent conditions set by the judge. He is prohibited from any contact with the alleged victim or the arresting officers. Additionally, he must refrain from possessing weapons, including firearms, and is required to submit to fingerprinting and DNA testing. Violation of these terms could lead to the revocation of his release.
The next step in the legal process is a pre-trial conference scheduled for October 15, with a tentative trial date set for January 23, 2025. If convicted, Kenney could face severe penalties due to the nature of the charges.
This case has attracted significant attention in the MMA community, as Kenney was a notable figure in the bantamweight division. His last professional bout took place in 2021, and he was subsequently released from the UFC roster following his arrest in August.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the MMA world watches closely, recognizing the serious nature of the allegations and their potential impact on Kenney’s career and personal life. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of addressing and preventing domestic violence in all spheres of society, including professional sports.
