A former federal prosecutor has raised concerns about the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office’s handling of the investigation into the golf cart incident involving NFL legend JOHN ELWAY. The incident, which occurred on March 26 at the Madison Club in La Quinta, California, resulted in the tragic death of Elway’s longtime friend and agent, JEFFREY SPERBECK, 62.
According to officials, Sperbeck fell off the back of a golf cart and sustained serious injuries. He was transported to Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs, where he passed away on Wednesday. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office has since opened an investigation into the incident, though Elway has not been charged with any crime.
NEAMA RAHMANI, a former Assistant U.S. Attorney, criticized the sheriff’s office for not learning about the incident until two days after it occurred. “The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office is either being less than honest or not doing their job,” Rahmani told Fox News Digital. “Nothing else makes sense.”
In response, Riverside County Sheriff CHAD BIANCO dismissed Rahmani’s comments, stating, “Maybe it’s a good thing it’s coming from a ‘former federal prosecutor.’ It appears we are all much better off with them in retirement.”
Elway has retained Denver-based lawyer HARVEY STEINBERG, who has a history of representing athletes in legal trouble. The sheriff’s office has maintained that there is no evidence to suggest the incident was anything more than a tragic accident.
Elway publicly expressed his grief following Sperbeck’s death. “I am absolutely devastated and heartbroken by the passing of my close friend, business partner, and agent JEFF SPERBECK,” he said in a statement. “There are no words to truly express the profound sadness I feel with the sudden loss of someone who has meant so much to me.”
Sperbeck’s family also released a statement, describing him as a “wonderful father, husband, brother, son, and friend to many.” The family expressed their deep sorrow and gratitude for the support they have received during this difficult time.
Elway and Sperbeck had been friends since 1990, when Sperbeck became Elway’s manager. Over the years, Sperbeck represented numerous NFL players, including Pro Football Hall of Famers RONNIE LOTT and JIM PLUNKETT.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office has stated that it will take appropriate action based on the outcome of the investigation.
[Sources: Fox News Digital](https://www.foxnews.com), [ESPN](https://www.espn.com)