The Minnesota Vikings announced Monday that running back Adrian Peterson is back on the team after a brief suspension, despite facing charges of child abuse for beating his son.
But a new report claims Peterson is also involved in another child abuse case over his treatment of another son. The incident apparently left the child with a head wound.
RANDY BURTON OF JUSTICE FOR CHILDREN VIA KHOU: "You break the skin, you have bleeding, much less permanent scars. That is a crime."
KHOU in Houston published photos and text messages about an incident from last June, when Peterson admitted to physically disciplining his four-year-old son while they were both in his car. The child allegedly hit his head on a car seat during the incident.
The mother of the boy informed child services, but the case never went to court. TMZ cites sources close to the investigation who say Peterson's discipline didn't violate the state laws of Texas, where the incident allegedly took place.
But the accusation could have a serious impact on the felony case against Peterson, who's facing child abuse counts for hitting one of his five children with a switch back in May. These new allegations could help prosecutors establish a pattern of behavior for Peterson.
Peterson defended himself on Twitter Monday, writing in part, "I am not a perfect parent, but I am, without a doubt, not a child abuser."
And the Vikings are rallying to Peterson's defense.
VIKINGS GENERAL MANAGER RICK SPIELMAN: "We believe he deserves to play while the legal process plays out."
Peterson's lawyer has dismissed these latest allegations against the football player as baseless. The running back is expected to play Sunday in the Vikings' game against the Saints.
This video includes an image from Getty Images.
