From NCAA Transfer Portal to Legal Troubles: Ryan Pellum’s Arrest Explained

A former wide receiver for the Oregon Ducks, Ryan Pellum now in the NCAA transfer portal with serious legal trouble after being accused of assault. Pellum, whose legal last name is Taylor, was arrested in Springfield, Oregon, on charges that arose from a report of an event alleged to have taken place on Christmas Day in his home town of Long Beach, California.

The Allegations

Pellum is accused of striking someone on the head with a 9mm pistol, causing injuries that required medical care including stitches, authorities allege. The alleged assault followed and, to unspecified locations, Pellum discharged the firearm twice, authorities said. The victim’s name or relationship to Pelum has not been disclosed.

Pellum was arrested in Oregon for his extradition as a warrant from the Long Beach Police Department was issued. Pellum allegedly admitted during his arrest that he was aware of the warrant. But he would not say exactly how or how he received this information.

Legal Proceedings

Pellum was released on bail and was scheduled to answer to the charges in a California court next week. Now he could be looking at trouble for assault with a firearm, a serious offense with the potential to be a big, negative thing for his personal and professional future.

Background and Football Career

The Oregon Ducks were the first of two schools Pellum played for, appearing in just one game during one season before deciding to use his redshirt year. Still considered a freshman because he’s 19, the 19-year-old entered the transfer portal before the allegations surfaced. Don Pellum, a former Oregon linebacker and defensive coordinator, is the nephew.

Oregon Athletic Department Received the Response

The University of Oregon’s Athletic Department didn’t respond to a request for comment but said Pellum isn’t affiliated with the program anymore. His future in collegiate football hangs in the balance in the legal process.

Generally, Pellum was on a promising athletic path, until this incident. We’ll have to wait and see if he can navigate these legal hurdles and forge on with his football career, particularly bearing in mind that whatever the outcome of the current investigation, it seems likely to be covered by court proceedings.