National Football League

Sapp cited in alleged hospital assault

Published Dec. 31, 2011 12:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Minnesota Vikings cornerback Benny Sapp was cited Friday morning, accused of fifth degree assault and careless driving after an altercation with a hospital security guard.

Sapp clashed with a children's hospital security guard at about 6:45 a.m. after he tried to enter the hospital with his 11-year-old son through an out-of-service door, myFOXtwincities.com reported, citing details from Minneapolis police.

After leaving to find an open entrance, Sapp returned and "stated he was in a hurry and was going to use the entrance whether it was closed or not," Pioneer Press reported.

A security guard at the hospital stopped him and the two are alleged to have gotten into a confrontation. Police said Sapp then left the child outside and headed to the parking garage.

The security guard followed the 30-year-old cornerback and a second confrontation is alleged to have occurred, myFOXtwincities.com reported.

Police said he "chest-bumped" the guard.

Security guards handcuffed Sapp and called police. Police said he was compliant when they arrived.

Sapp was given a citation and must arrange a court hearing within 10 days.

Vikings spokesman Bob Hagan said late Friday that the team was aware of the citation, noting that Sapp was not arrested and had fully cooperated with police, Pioneer Press reported.