NFL star Tyreek Hill has been ordered to pay his ex-wife, Keeta Vaccaro, $500,000 after a Florida jury found him liable for two counts of civil battery.
According to Diana Moskovitz of Defector Media, jurors ruled against the former Miami Dolphins wide receiver on two battery claims but rejected the remaining allegations.
The jury awarded Vaccaro $500,000 in compensatory damages but declined to impose punitive damages.
The verdict follows a civil lawsuit stemming from allegations Vaccaro previously raised against Hill during their divorce proceedings.
Under Florida law, plaintiffs must establish civil battery through a “preponderance of the evidence,” meaning the alleged conduct more likely occurred than not.
However, punitive damages require “clear and convincing evidence” of intentional misconduct or gross negligence under Florida Statute 768.72.
The jury’s decision means Hill faces financial liability without additional punitive damages. The findings do not constitute a criminal conviction.
The verdict could also complicate Hill’s NFL future as the league continues reviewing the allegations under its Personal Conduct Policy.
NFL Star Tyreek Hill Verdict: Must Pay Keeta Vaccaro $500k
Although jurors found Hill liable for two incidents, the NFL must conduct its own assessment before determining whether disciplinary action is warranted.
A civil verdict does not automatically result in a suspension or fine. League officials must follow the investigative and disciplinary procedures established through collective bargaining.
The NFL could also examine allegations that jurors rejected, since its disciplinary process operates independently of civil litigation.
Hill’s legal troubles could influence interest from teams considering adding the veteran receiver to their rosters.
Prospective teams may weigh the financial judgment, potential NFL punishment and public scrutiny when evaluating Hill’s availability.
The $500,000 award represents a significant legal setback for Hill, who remains subject to possible league discipline.
Neither the jury’s rejection of additional claims nor its decision against punitive damages prevents further NFL scrutiny.
For now, Hill faces a substantial civil judgment as questions surrounding his professional future remain unresolved.
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