Shawne Merriman, the San Diego Chargers linebacker, has been arrested. Shawn Merriman was arrested on suspicion of choking and restraining a woman when she tried to leave his apartment. The victim, Tila Tequila, is a reality show TV celebrity.

Tila Tequila, aka Tila Nguyen called police at 3:45 am Sunday, September 6, to complain. Police arrested Merriman at his home, in Poway, San Diego. Shawne Merriman was charged with battery and false imprisonment.

Tila Tequila and Shawne Merriman had been partying at Stingaree nightclub in San Diego on Saturday night until early Sunday morning. Tequila gave Merriman lap dances in their private area of the club.

Tequila and Merriman ended up at his home. There was an alleged fight and when Tequila tried to leave, Merriman choked her and that was when she decided to call police.

Tila Tequila was sent to hospital but has been released.

Merriman’s lawyer denied the charges and said Tequila was tipsy when Merriman tried to stop her from leaving. Merriman was concerned over her safety.

Shawne Merriman #56 of the San Diego Chargers smiles before the game against the Arizona Cardinals at the University of Phoenix Stadium on August 22, 2009 in Glendale, Arizona.

* Reality star Tila Tequila arrives at the 22nd Annual ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Music Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on June 26, 2009 in Beverly Hills, California.

Shawne Merriman twitter.

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This entry was posted on Sunday, September 6th, 2009 at 4:16 pm and is filed under Gossip.