Darwin Vander Esch, father of retired Dallas Cowboys linebacker Leighton Vander Esch, was arrested on Sunday in connection with multiple domestic violence charges. The 61-year-old is facing accusations of felony attempted strangulation, misdemeanor domestic battery, and intentional destruction of a telecommunication device. The arrest took place following a report of a domestic incident in the early hours along Seven Devils Road near Riggins, Idaho, as confirmed by the Idaho County Sheriff’s Office.
Law enforcement responded to the scene shortly after receiving the report at 12:26 a.m. Upon arrival, they arrested Darwin Vander Esch and placed him in custody without bond. The case has drawn significant attention due to the connection with his son, Leighton Vander Esch, a prominent figure in the NFL who also has strong ties to the Riggins community.
Leighton Vander Esch, who grew up in Riggins, built an impressive football career starting at Boise State. He was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, a testament to his talent and dedication. Over six seasons with the team, Vander Esch achieved several milestones, including 469 tackles, 3.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, and three interceptions. His exceptional performances earned him Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors, cementing his reputation as a formidable linebacker.
Unfortunately, injuries cut Vander Esch’s promising career short. In March of this year, he made the difficult decision to retire from professional football to prioritize his health and well-being. Despite his early retirement, Vander Esch remains a celebrated figure in the NFL and his hometown, where his journey to success began.
The incident involving his father has cast a shadow over the family’s legacy, with many awaiting further details about the ongoing investigation. As the case unfolds, it underscores the importance of addressing domestic violence and holding individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their family connections or public standing.
