Baltimore Ravens RB Bernard Pierce arrested for DUI

Baltimore Ravens running back Bernard Pierce was arrested and charged with DUI early Wednesday morning.

According to the Baltimore Sun, the 23-year-old Pierce was pulled over for speeding “just before 2 a.m.” and was subjected to field sobriety tests after the officer suspected that he was under the influence. Baltimore County police told the Sun that Pierce failed the field sobriety tests and was subsequently arrested and taken to jail.

The Ravens said in a statement that they are “aware of the situation and learning more about it.”

“We take these matters seriously,” the team said.

Per Baltimore County police, Pierce is facing the following charges: driving while under the influence of alcohol, driving while impaired by alcohol, exceeding maximum speed: 55 mph in a posted 30 mph zone, and driving a vehicle in excess of reasonable and prudent speed on highway.

Pierce has been with the Ravens since the team selected him in the third round of the 2012 draft out of Temple. In those three seasons, Pierce has combined for 1,334 yards and five touchdowns on 3.8 yards per carry. Pierce also has 29 career catches for 164 yards.

Pierce had the chance to take hold of the team’s starting role last season after the release of Ray Rice, but was passed on the depth chart by Justin Forsett and was inactive three times in favor of rookie Lorenzo Taliaferro.

Pierce is the third Ravens player to be arrested this offseason. Defensive back Victor Hampton was charged with DWI on March 1 and released the next day. Additionally, defensive tackle Terrence Cody was cut by the team after being indicted by a grand jury for animal cruelty.

- - - - - - -

Sam Cooper is a contributor for the Yahoo Sports blogs. Have a tip? Email him or follow him on Twitter!

Follow @SamDCooper

from Yahoo Sports http://ift.tt/1BPIzF1