Grand jury declines to file criminal charges against Texans safety Jimmie Ward

A Montgomery County grand jury declined to return an indictment against Houston Texans safety Jimmie Ward in connection with domestic-violence allegations, meaning Ward will not face criminal charges in the case.

Ward, 34, was accused of threatening to kill his wife in a crystal-meth-fueled incident earlier this year and was arrested in June at his home, according to the reporting surrounding the case. In addition to the criminal matter, he faces a civil suit filed by Cristy West, who is seeking more than $20 million in damages.

Ward was charged with felony domestic violence after authorities said he forcefully entered West's home around 4:20 a.m. on June 12. West’s civil filing describes an encounter in which she alleged Ward exhibited erratic and aggressive behavior, dragged her into a bedroom, and subjected her to slapping and choking, while also threatening to harm her.

The decision not to bring criminal charges was confirmed by a Montgomery County court official, who said no bill was issued on Thursday following the grand jury ruling. Ward's attorney, Stephen Jackson, said, “Today we presented our grand jury packet and evidence to the grand jury to show that Mr. Ward was factually innocent of the allegations against him.”

Officials for the district attorney’s office indicated that information provided to the grand jury helped support the conclusion that Ward should be no billed. The district attorney’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the ruling.

Ward, who had been named as one of the Texans’ captains for the 2024 season, remains a member of the organization as the legal process moves forward. The Texans have not released a formal comment on the grand jury decision, and there has been no indication of any immediate change to Ward’s status with the team.

Civil litigation in cases like this typically continues independently of criminal proceedings, and the determination by the grand jury does not resolve the civil dispute. In a separate civil action, West is pursuing substantial damages, arguing the alleged conduct caused injury and distress. The case will proceed in civil court on its own timeline, regardless of the criminal outcome.

As the legal process concludes, the Texans will assess any implications for team leadership and future participation. Ward’s status with the franchise and potential impact on roster decisions will likely depend on additional legal developments and any further statements from the team or his representatives.