Prosecutors in New Hampshire have agreed to drop drug possession charges against New England Patriots safety Patrick Chung as part of a negotiated agreement.
The Belknap County Attorney's Office announced Monday that they have agreed to file what is known as a "conditional nolle prosequi" of the charges, meaning Chung will not face prosecution.
Chung, 32, was indicted in August after prosecutors said he was found to be in possession of cocaine "on or about" June 25 in Meredith, New Hampshire, where he owns a lakeside home.
The charges stemmed from an incident on June 25, when members of the Meredith Police Department were called to Chung's residence on a "call for service," according to prosecutors. While there, police said they obtained evidence that led to the charges being filed.
As part of the agreement with prosecutors, Chung must remain on good behavior and submit to periodic drug testing for two years. He also has to perform 40 hours of community service in the next 18 months.
Prosecutors said there are several reasons they agreed to this resolution, including that he had no prior criminal record and was fully cooperative and that the amount of drugs found was small. He also voluntarily underwent a full substance abuse evaluation that indicated that he does not need any substance abuse treatment.
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Chung also agreed to waive his rights to a speedy trial and or indictment and agree that if he fails to comply with the requirements, the state has the right to reinstate the charges.
"We are happy with the agreement and ready to move forward," said Chung's lawyer, Corey MacDonald.
Chung has played 10 of his 11 NFL seasons for the Patriots and has won three Super Bowls. He was drafted by New England in 2009. After a stint with the Philadelphia Eagles, he was signed as a free agent by the Patriots in 2014.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
