Patriots star Christian Barmore accuses Providence police of racism after being pulled over

New England Patriots defensive lineman Christian Barmore took to social media regarding an early morning run-in with police in Rhode Island Wednesday, claiming racism was involved.

According to Providence police, there were issues with the Patriot star’s vehicle registration and there were drugs in the SUV.

According to police paperwork obtained by Boston 25 News, two Providence police officers were on patrol in the area of Elmwood Avenue and Parkis Avenue shortly before 1:00 a.m. when they saw a Grey Jeep Grand Cherokee with tinted windows and a plate cover over a temporary license plate. The officers were unable to read the car’s info but noticed a temporary registration from an unknown state.

After officers activated their overhead lights and signaled for the vehicle to stop, the vehicle began a “slow stop” creeping along Elmwood Avenue and Bridgham Street before coming to a complete stop near 343 Broad Street. Providence police say a “slow roll” is usually done to hide contraband or weapons before officers come to the window.

The officers approached Barmore, who asked the reason for the stop. Police said the Patriots defensive lineman had an “attitude” and behaved aggressively when officers asked for his paperwork.

Officers say when questioned about his expired registration, Barmore continued to behave aggressively and asked the officers to give him a ticket.

Barmore was then informed that the Jeep would be towed from the scene and police would search the car. Police say Barmore was allegedly seen attempting to conceal an item under his seat.

Providence police say Barmore eventually exited the car, “pushing away” from police while stating he did not want to be touched.

Police say officers recovered an ash cup with a blunt from under Barmore’s driver-side seat and several tubes filled with marijuana.

Barmore then entered a black Dodge Challenger and left the scene.

Barmore’s vehicle was towed and a summons for operation of an unregistered vehicle, display of plates, and driving with expired registration was left for Barmore inside the car, police say. Barmore was not arrested.

Barmore wrote on social media that the run-in with police was racially motivated. The tweet appeared to be deleted sometime late Wednesday morning or early afternoon.

“I just experienced for the first time 5 Providence cops being very unprofessional racism at its finest,” Barmore said.

Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo was asked about the incident during media availability Wednesday.

“I had a conversation with him this morning. ... But for this time here with you guys I just want to focus on Jacksonville,” said Mayo. “What I will say is that I met with the captains and we had a conversation on how to approach it as a team. Those guys handled it in the locker room. It is a conversation we had, and we’ll see how it goes, and how it looks going forward.”

Providence police invited Barmore to reach out to police to discuss the incident further.

“The Providence Police Department takes all concerns from the public very seriously and with the utmost professionalism. In this particular case, the vehicle in question was found to be unregistered during a routine traffic stop, which is a violation of the law. The officer acted in full compliance with department protocols and state regulations,” Providence police said. “We understand that any encounter with law enforcement can be stressful, however, it’s important to note that officers are required to enforce all applicable laws, including those related to vehicle registration. We will continue to review the situation to ensure that proper procedures were followed and to maintain transparency with the public.”

Barmore has not seen the field in 2024 as he undergoes treatment for blood clots.

The 6-foot-5, 315-pound Alabama product was selected in the second round of the 2021 draft and signed a 4-year, $92 million deal this past spring - the richest contract ever by a Patriot not named Tom Brady.

Barmore had the best season of his young career in 2023, a full 17-game campaign where he totaled career highs in tackles (64) and sacks (8.5).

Marijuana is legal in Rhode Island. NFL players are still tested annually for THC.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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