Police alleged that Merritt, 54, unlawfully, knowingly, or recklessly caused bodily harm to a daughter, a matter that constitutes a domestic-violence offense. He was arrested by Overland Park police around 8:50 p.m. Wednesday and booked into the Johnson County jail about 10:25 p.m.; no bond information was available at the time.
Merritt is scheduled to make his first court appearance at 2 p.m. in Johnson County District Court, where procedural details are expected to be clarified.
The Chiefs were made aware of the arrest but did not offer a comment on the case, in line with typical procedures while authorities handle the matter.
The arrest comes at a pivotal moment for the Chiefs, who are looking to use the NFL draft to jump-start a rebuild after missing the playoffs for the first time in more than a decade.
The ongoing legal process will determine Merritt’s status with the team and outline next steps for both him and the organization.
