Gervonta Davis Case Highlights the Risks When Domestic Violence Accusers Recant
According to reporting by FOX13 Memphis, professional boxer Gervonta Davis was arrested in Parkland, Florida, on a domestic violence battery charge after a woman identified as “D.P.” called law enforcement and alleged he assaulted her. An arrest report stated Davis struck her on the right side of her head with a “closed hand slap,” causing a small abrasion inside her upper lip. He was jailed and released on a $1,000 bond.
Shortly afterward, the woman released a statement through her attorney, Lindsay Lawrence Chase, explaining that she and Davis had been in a “fragile” place in their relationship and that both were at fault for the argument. She described herself as frantic when she called 911 and stated that “Gervonta did not harm me or our daughter.” She said the couple has now sought counseling and is focused on moving forward with their lives and co-parenting.
Despite her new statement, Broward County records show that the domestic violence charge remained active at the time of the report. The article also notes that earlier misdemeanor domestic violence charges against Davis from a 2020 incident in Miami-Dade County were dropped in December 2022, and that he faces a separate case in Baltimore related to an alleged hit-and-run.
Source: FOX13 Memphis, “South Florida woman claims boxer Gervonta Davis did not assault her,” Dec. 31, 2022.
Why This Matters for Anyone Accused of Domestic Violence in Florida
This coverage of the Gervonta Davis case underscores a critical point for anyone facing domestic violence charges in Florida:
A 911 call and initial accusation can lead to an arrest, a public record, and serious consequences within hours.
Even if the accuser later recants or clarifies that they were emotional, frantic, or believe the situation was misunderstood, the State of Florida can still move forward with prosecution based on other evidence (officer observations, photos, 911 recordings, prior incidents, etc.).
High-profile or not, if you have been arrested or are under investigation for domestic violence, you should not assume the case will “go away” just because the other person no longer wants to press charges.
An experienced domestic violence defense attorney in Fort Lauderdale can:
Help you understand the charges and potential penalties.
Evaluate the evidence the State may use with or without the accuser’s cooperation.
Address no-contact orders, bond conditions, and collateral consequences (work, licensing, family law cases).
Develop a strategy tailored to your circumstances, including how to handle recanting statements and media exposure if your case draws public attention.
If you or a loved one has been accused of domestic violence in Broward, Miami-Dade, or Palm Beach County, speak with a knowledgeable South Florida domestic violence defense lawyer as early as possible to protect your rights and your future.
