Crime is any act that breaks the law. Often, professional athletes are involved in crimes and it appears that they are above the law. The athlete's notoriety gives the impression that professional athletes commit more crimes than the average person, whether felonies or misdemeanors. Should athletes be allowed to return to their respective leagues after committing such crimes? Many people believe that professional athletes are “above the law.” In reality, it is human beings like you and me who, regardless of the circumstances, can and will be charged like the average person. Felony offense can certainly play a role in whether or not a professional athlete who commits a felony should be allowed to play again. Driving while drunk or under the influence of alcohol is a crime that athletes can commit. This crime is common among athletes and can attract unnecessary attention. DUI or DWI is a crime that is quickly solved and is ignored by society, but journalists try to dig up more dirt on professional gamers to bury them under more attention. One athlete who committed this crime is Donte Stallworth (“Financial Deal Avoids Trial 2009”). Stallworth is an NFL player who currently holds a contract with the Cleveland Browns (“Stallworth suspended indefinitely in 2009). Stallworth was charged with drunken manslaughter and sentenced to thirty days in jail on May 2, plus numerous hours of community service ("Stallworth suspended indefinitely" 2009). Tony Adams, a professional football player for Arsenal FC, was also accused of drink-driving in 1990 (Adams 2009); Adams was sentenced to 4 months in prison, but was released after serving 33 days (Adams 2009). And one last athlete who...... middle of paper...... - Elin Nordegren, Tiger Woods: People.com." People.com: The #1 celebrity site for breaking news, celebrity photos and celebrity style .Np, December 1, 2009. Web. January 21, 2010. .• “Tim Lincecum.” News around the Globe Np, November 6, 2009. Web. - Google. Search." Google. Np, nd Web. January 21, 2010. .• press, associate. "Jamal Lewis enters federal drug case - Sports News Story - WBAL Baltimore." Baltimore News, Baltimore, Maryland News, Weather & Sports - WBAL Baltimore's Channel 11. Np, October 7, 2004. Web January 21.. 2010. .