Patriots release troubled DB Andrews

Jul 1, 2008 - 9:12 PM FOXBOROUGH, Massachusetts (Ticker) -- The New England Patriots on Tuesday cut ties with defensive back Willie Andrews, releasing the third-year player a day after his latest brush with the law.

Andrews was arrested for a second time this offseason on Monday, this time on a charge of brandishing a gun at his girlfriend during an argument at his Mansfield apartment.

Andrews also was arrested for possession of marijuana with intent to distribute in Lowell in February, two days after the Patriots' 17-14 loss to the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII.

Andrews, 24, was arraigned Monday in Attleboro District Court on charges of assault with a dangerous weapon and unlawful possession of a high-capacity firearm.

The Patriots issued a statement Monday, stating, "The New England Patriots take the conduct of our players very seriously. We are aware of the very disturbing and alarming reports regarding Willie Andrews. We will not offer any additional comment, as is our policy regarding pending legal matters."

Andrews was drafted by the Patriots in the seventh round of the 2006 draft and had 24 tackles in two seasons.

The Patriots made another roster move Tuesday, signing rookie linebacker Bo Ruud.