The NFL community was stunned this week as news broke that former cornerback Darryl “Buster” Skrine has been arrested in Georgia on multiple counts related to alleged financial fraud.
The 36-year-old former defensive standout now faces a serious legal battle that stretches across the U.S. and Canada.
Details of the Arrest
Skrine was booked in Roswell, Georgia, on 18 charges, including deposit account fraud, identity fraud, financial transaction card fraud, theft by taking, and criminal attempt to commit theft, according to local authorities.
This arrest follows more than a year after Skrine became a wanted man in Canada for similar offenses, highlighting a pattern of alleged financial misconduct spanning multiple countries.
Alleged Online Scams
Police say Skrine targeted women through online dating platforms, claiming financial hardships and promising to repay loans from his NFL annuity.
Instead, investigators allege, he used the funds to support a lavish lifestyle, splurging on Airbnbs, travel, and gift cards.
So far, authorities have identified three victims in Wisconsin, North Carolina, and New York, with losses totaling approximately $300,000.
They suspect there could be additional victims nationwide.
Previous Legal Troubles in Canada
Skrine’s legal troubles aren’t new. Canadian authorities first arrested him in August 2023 at Toronto’s Pearson International Airport on fraud-related charges, alleging he opened bank accounts with fraudulent checks and withdrew around $100,000.
Released on bail with a GPS monitor, Skrine reportedly failed to appear for a May 2024 court date, and his GPS went offline, turning him into a fugitive.
Roswell police are now coordinating with Canadian authorities to ensure he answers for all outstanding charges.
Skrine’s NFL Career
Before his legal issues, Skrine enjoyed a notable NFL career.
Drafted in the fifth round out of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga in 2011, he played for the Cleveland Browns, New York Jets, Chicago Bears, San Francisco 49ers, and Tennessee Titans.
Over 11 seasons, Skrine earned $40 million and compiled an impressive on-field record, including 3.5 sacks, 10 interceptions, six forced fumbles, and 491 solo tackles in 157 games.
He retired in 2022, having last played for the Titans in 2021.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Authorities say Skrine will face charges in both the U.S. and Canada, with investigations ongoing to identify all potential victims.
The former NFL star now confronts serious consequences as legal systems on two continents prepare to hold him accountable for alleged financial misconduct.
