Sports in brief: Chargers’ Merriman arrested

Football: San Diego Chargers star outside linebacker Shawne Merriman was arrested Sunday and accused of choking and restraining his girlfriend, reality TV star Tila Tequila, as she tried to leave his suburban home.

Tequila, 27, signed a citizen’s arrest warrant, charging Merriman with battery and false imprisonment, San Diego County Sheriff’s Lt. Gary Steadman said.

Deputies responded about 3:45 a.m. to Merriman’s house in Poway, north of San Diego, after a woman called to say she was choked by the player and thrown to the ground when she tried to leave, Sheriff’s Department spokesman Jan Caldwell said at a news conference.

Merriman, 25, was taken into custody and booked into the central jail at about 8:30 a.m. He was released shortly after 11 a.m. Caldwell said she didn’t know if he posted bail or was released on his own recognizance.

Chargers general manager A.J. Smith reportedly has been unhappy with Merriman’s extracurricular activities, and there’s been speculation the Chargers will let him leave when he’s eligible to become an unrestricted free agent. Associated Press

UO’s Blount apologizes to Boise State

Football: Oregon running back LeGarrette Blount called Boise State defensive end Byron Hout and coach Chris Petersen to apologize for the punch he threw following Thursday’s game between the two teams.

Blount and Ducks coach Chip Kelly made the conciliatory phone call Saturday. A spokesman for Oregon confirmed it took place, but would not discuss what was said.

Blount punched Hout, a Lake City High graduate, in the jaw following the 16th-ranked Ducks’ 19-8 loss to the 14th-ranked Broncos on Thursday night. Hout was knocked to his knees.

On Friday, Kelly suspended Blount for the rest of the season, effectively ending his career at Oregon.

Boise State’s Petersen was not available for comment Sunday. He was scheduled to speak on the WAC coaches conference call today.

Associated Press