A Shot in the Face with Tila Tequila

Merriman denies harming reality TV star
Associated Press

SAN DIEGO -- San Diego Chargers star outside linebacker Shawne Merriman said he did not harm reality TV star Tila Tequila at his home early Sunday and added he was concerned for her safety because she appeared to be intoxicated.

Merriman was arrested and accused of choking and throwing Tequila to the ground as she tried to leave his home in suburban Poway. Tequila signed a citizen's arrest warrant charging Merriman with battery and false imprisonment. Both are felonies.



Merriman spent about 2½ hours in the downtown jail before posting bail.

Merriman practiced Monday, then said he's convinced he'll be cleared. It will ultimately be up to the District Attorney's office to decide if he'll be charged.

"I think when it all surfaces, it will be a different situation. Period," said Merriman, who described Tequila as an acquaintance.

Tequila, whose real name is Tila Nguyen, is best known for "A Shot at Love with Tila Tequila," which ran for two seasons on MTV. The bisexual dating show featured men and women vying for Tequila's affections. She has also modeled for Playboy and other men's magazines.

Merriman said he was limited in what he could say. He kept referring to a statement issued through his attorney Sunday night.

"At the time, I was concerned about her welfare given the intoxicated state she appeared to be in and I encouraged her to stay until safe transportation could be provided," Merriman said in the statement. "We would all do our best to help a friend if we considered their actions to be detrimental to their personal safety.

"I in no way caused any harm to Ms. Nguyen, however, paramedics were called and she was examined but no injuries were reported," the statement continued.

"It's kind of a tough situation where you think you're doing the right thing," Merriman said Monday. "I'm glad that everyone was safe at the end of the day. I don't think I will regret that part."

Let me tell you one thing. There's no better way to warm up for the regular season than roughing up a 90-pound bisexual asian woman. I'm suprised the cops didn't buy Merriman's first excuse that Tequila was playing scout team QB. I mean, she was wearing a Kyle Orton jersey and a fake neck beard. Or maybe that's just what Merriman's into in the sack.

At the end of the day, Shawn Merriman is just one of the worst types of people. He's an asshole but he tries to hide it with his articulate speech, charity work and a big, goofy smile. All thw while, he's getting jacked on roids and beating dating show stars. We can only hope there's another season ending injury in his near future. I wish Tila would have cracked him in the skull with that giant coffee table book.