IRVING, Texas – Former Cowboys defensive tackle Josh Brent was sentenced Friday to 180 days in jail and 10 years of probation after the jury found him guilty two days prior of driving drunk in a car crash that resulted in the death of his teammate and friend, Jerry Brown.
Brent was also reportedly ordered to pay a $10,000 fine after being convicted of intoxication manslaughter Wednesday for the December 2012 wreck.
The jurors were sequestered Tuesday before Brent was convicted a day later. The sentencing phase began Thursday to determine the punishment for Brent, who faced up to 20 years in prison. Police said Brent's blood alcohol level was twice the legal limit at the time of the incident. [embedded_ad]
Cowboys players Barry Church and Danny McCray were among the people to testify during the trial. Brown's mother, Stacey Jackson, also reportedly testified during the sentencing phase and has repeatedly stated she's forgiven Brent for what took place.
Brent, who last played with the Cowboys in 2012 and totaled 1.5 sacks in 12 games, has retired since the incident. The Cowboys still retain his rights. Executive vice president Stephen Jones wouldn't address the possibility of Brent returning to the team as he spoke from a Senior Bowl practice in Mobile, Ala., prior to Wednesday's conviction.
Linebacker Sean Lee reportedly attended the trial Tuesday and was in the courtroom to provide support for Brent. Owner/general manager Jerry Jones and head coach Jason Garrett have also offered their support for Brent since the accident occurred.
"We understand the very serious nature of this situation and express our concerns for all of the families and individuals that have been affected by the tragedy of Jerry Brown's death," owner/general manager Jerry Jones said in a statement after the conviction.
