Garry Peters’ suspension downgraded to fine following appeal

Photo courtesy: B.C. Lions

Following an appeal, the one-game suspension given to B.C. Lions’ defensive back Garry Peters recently has been downgraded to a fine. Peters has issued the following statement through his team.

On September 22, 2021, I was suspended for one game due to unacceptable and unprofessional behaviour towards a doping control officer after the conclusion of the game on September 11, 2021. 

Upon reflection and after a hearing with the Commissioner on October 2, 2021, I wish to make the following statement.

Dear Commissioner Ambrosie,

I want to offer my regret and sincerest apology for my behaviour during the drug testing process after our game on September 11, 2021. I regret that I treated CCES staff in an unacceptable manner and I will directly offer to them in writing my unequivocal apology. What I did was wrong and for that I am sorry. I also apologize to my team, my teammates and the league for my behaviour. I have learned an important lesson from my failure and will conduct myself in a more professional manner going forward. 

Finally, I want to thank the Commissioner and the CFLPA for giving me an opportunity to express my remorse for my actions on the evening of September 11, 2021.

Sincerely,
Garry Peters

The CFL released its own statement indicating that Peters had been issued a maximum fine, though the amount of the fine was not disclosed as per league policy.

Peters was suspended by the CFL for one game on Wednesday, Sept 23 for “verbal abuse and unacceptable behaviour towards doping control officers.” Appealing the suspension would allowed him to dress for B.C.’s two games since.

The 29-year-old defensive back has started all eight of B.C.’s games at boundary cornerback this year, recording 27 total tackles.