Referee Arrested for Allegedly Choking Youth Football Coach in New Jersey

A youth flag football referee in Franklin, Gloucester County, has been taken into custody following an incident where he allegedly choked a coach during a game on Sunday. According to local authorities, 47-year-old Edward McKinnie Jr. from Blackwood has been charged with second-degree aggravated assault, a felony offense.

The situation unfolded around 1:30 p.m. at the township's sports complex on Pennsylvania Avenue, where police responded to reports of an altercation during the game. Tensions escalated over a contentious call made on the field, leading McKinnie to reportedly choke a 46-year-old coach from Newfield.

Witnesses indicated that bystanders had to step in to separate McKinnie from the coach, who required medical attention for his injuries and was treated at the scene by Gloucester County EMS.

After the incident, McKinnie was brought to the local police headquarters, where he was officially charged and subsequently released as he awaits a future court date. The investigation into the matter was conducted by Officer Matthew Flynn and Detective Nate Tabler of the Franklin Township Police Department.

This incident highlights the growing concern over violence in youth sports, a topic that has gained attention in recent years.