Wesley Leasy Mistakenly Detained
Former Arizona Cardinals linebacker Wesley Leasy found himself in a terrifying and confusing situation earlier this week when he was mistakenly detained by Mesa police while picking up his daughter at the airport. The retired NFL player, known for his calm demeanor and years of athletic discipline, was held at gunpoint in what authorities later admitted was a case of mistaken identity.
The incident occurred at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, where Leasy was arriving to greet his daughter. According to video footage and eyewitness accounts, multiple police officers approached Leasy with weapons drawn, ordered him to step out of his vehicle, and handcuffed him on the spot. He was detained for several minutes before officers realized they had the wrong person.
NBC News’ Ellison Barber spoke directly with Leasy, who described the encounter as “traumatizing.” He recounted the moment officers surrounded him and how he feared for his life despite repeatedly complying with all commands. “I didn’t know what was going on,” he told Barber. “I was just there to pick up my daughter. Next thing I know, I’ve got guns pointed at me.”
Mesa Police Department issued a formal statement shortly after the incident, confirming that Leasy was not the individual they were seeking. “We regret the error and acknowledge that Mr. Leasy was wrongfully detained,” the department said. “The officers were acting on a vehicle match connected to an unrelated investigation, and the situation escalated due to protocol in responding to a perceived threat.”
Despite the apology, Leasy and his family are shaken. The former linebacker, who played several seasons with the Cardinals before retiring, says the experience has raised serious concerns about racial profiling and police procedure. “Mistakes like this can cost lives,” Leasy said. “If I hadn’t remained calm—or if the officers hadn’t recognized the mistake when they did—this could’ve ended tragically.”
Civil rights advocates and community leaders are calling for a thorough review of the department’s actions and the implementation of safeguards to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As of now, Leasy has not announced whether he plans to pursue legal action, but he emphasized that his priority is ensuring accountability and advocating for systemic change.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe,” he said. “Especially when you’re just trying to be there for your child.”
