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Adrian Peterson Appeal Of Suspension Denied

MINNEAPOLIS (AP/CBS) — An arbiter appointed by the NFL to hear Adrian Peterson's appeal has ruled that the Minnesota Vikings running back will remain suspended until at least next spring.

The decision by Harold Henderson, a former league official, was announced on Friday. His ruling upheld the NFL's decision last month to suspend Peterson without pay for the remainder of the season and not consider him for reinstatement until April 15.

The NFL Players Association balked at the punishment. Peterson was charged with felony child abuse in September for using a wooden switch to discipline his son, but he pleaded no contest to misdemeanor reckless assault in November. He had been on paid leave while his case moved through the court system.

The NFL Player's Association released the following statement regarding the decision:

"The NFLPA expected this outcome, given the hearing officer's relationship and financial ties to the NFL. The decision itself ignores the facts, the evidence and the collective bargaining agreement. This decision also represents the NFL's repeated failure to adhere to due process and confirms its inconsistent treatment of players. Our union is considering immediate legal remedies."

(© Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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