Aaron Hernandez Dropped By New England Patriots After Arrest

Shortly after his arrest early Wednesday morning, the New England Patriots have parted ways with 23-year-old tight end Aaron Hernandez.

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Hernandez was in the heart of a Massachusetts Police investigation concerning the death of former semiprofessional football player Odin Lloyd. Lloyd was shot in the head last week and since community surveillance cameras saw Hernandez with the 27-year-old mere hours before his death, police thought it appropriate to further their investigation. Extensively probing the inside of Hernandez's house earlier this week along with searching a nearby pond, local and state officers were locked on finding any clues that could link them to a possible suspect in Lloyd's murder.

An arrest warrant was prepared last week for obstruction of justice after Hernandez destroyed his personal cell phone and surveillance cameras from his North Attleborough mansion. Police were also reportedly interested in uncovering why Hernandez hired a team of cleaners to meticulously clean the inside of his home last Monday.

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Apparently gathering a satisfactory amount of evidence and information regarding the ongoing situation, police took the NFL star into custody at around 8:45am, EST on Wednesday, June 26^th. Learning of their tight end's arrest after monitoring the situation internally, the New England Patriots organization released a statement Wednesday indicating they have in fact released one of their most reliable offensive weapons.

"A young man was murdered last week and we extend our sympathies to the family and friends who mourn his loss. Words cannot express the disappointment we feel knowing that one of our players was arrested as a result of this investigation. We realize that law enforcement investigations into this matter are ongoing. We support their efforts and respect the process. At this time, we believe this transaction is simply the right thing to do."

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Hernandez signed a 5-year contract worth $40 million last summer and since his selection by the Patriots in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft, Hernandez has become one of the most valuable weapons in the league. Recording over 40 receptions in each of his 3 seasons, the former University of Florida standout totaled 175 receptions for over 1,900 yards and 18 touchdowns. Able to provide quarterback Tom Brady with an over the middle threat and even a backfield asset in certain formations, the Patriots used their tight end in multiple ways to highlight his football attributes.

Charges were not disclosed following the arrest but they will be revealed once the 23-year-old is arraigned at the Attleboro District Court on Wednesday, June 26^th.