Why Aaron Donald filed a restraining order against alleged stalker Janelle Anwar

Former NFL star Aaron Donald, recognised as one of the most dominant defensive players in football history, has recently sought legal protection against a woman he claims has been harassing and threatening him and his family for several years. On April 15, 2025, Donald filed for a temporary restraining order (TRO) in Los Angeles County against Janelle Anwar, alleging a pattern of stalking and delusional behavior that began in 2020.

Who is Aaron Donald?

Aaron Donald, 33, retired from the NFL after the 2023 season, concluding a distinguished career with the Los Angeles Rams. Despite his retirement, Donald has remained in the public eye, particularly on social media, where he recently shared a video showcasing his physical condition. 

Born on May 23, 1991, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Aaron Charles Donald emerged as one of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history. After a standout college career at the University of Pittsburgh, he was selected 13th overall by the St. Louis Rams in the 2014 NFL Draft. Throughout his 10-season career, Donald earned numerous accolades, including three NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards and eight First-Team All-Pro selections.

He played a pivotal role in the Rams' victory in Super Bowl LVI. Donald announced his retirement from professional football in March 2024, concluding a remarkable career marked by consistent excellence and leadership.

However, his personal life has taken a troubling turn due to the actions of Janelle Anwar.

Allegations against Janelle Anwar

According to court documents obtained by TMZ, Donald filed for a temporary restraining order (TRO) against Janelle Anwar on April 15, 2025. He alleges that Anwar has been stalking and harassing him and his family since 2020. Despite never having met her, Donald claims that Anwar has sent him unsolicited packages, gifts, and messages over the years.

Anwar reportedly filed a dissolution action against Donald last month, asserting a delusional belief that they were married and demanding $1,500 per month in spousal support and a $6.5 million settlement.​

Donald expressed deep concern in his petition, stating, "Anwar is delusional, and I fear that her delusions will lead to her attempting to harm me, my wife, my children, and my brother." He also included evidence of Anwar's behavior, such as a $5 Zelle payment she sent with a message reading "I love you," and a Google Chat message in which she allegedly threatened his 3-year-old son's life.​

In April 2021, Aaron Donald faced assault allegations stemming from an incident in Pittsburgh. DeVincent Spriggs accused Donald of assaulting him at an after-hours club, resulting in injuries that required medical attention. Spriggs' attorney, Todd Hollis, claimed the altercation was unprovoked and led to significant injuries for his client.

However, Donald's attorney, Casey White, presented surveillance footage that painted a different picture. The video suggested that Donald did not assault Spriggs but instead attempted to de-escalate the situation. According to White, Spriggs was the aggressor and attempted to hit Donald with a bottle. Donald reportedly intervened to prevent further violence, even assisting Spriggs during the altercation.

Pittsburgh Police reviewed the surveillance footage, which corroborated Donald's account, leading to a reevaluation of the initial allegations. ​

Timeline of events

• 2020: Donald alleges that Anwar began sending him unsolicited packages, gifts, and messages. He states that he has never met her.​

• March 2025: Anwar reportedly filed a dissolution action against Donald, claiming they were married and seeking $1,500 per month and a $6.5 million settlement.​

• April 2025: Donald filed for a TRO, asserting that Anwar's behavior had escalated to threats against his 3-year-old son via Google Chat. He included screenshots of messages and a $5 Zelle payment with a note saying "I love you."​

• April 2025: A judge granted the TRO, ordering Anwar to stay at least 100 yards away from Donald and his family, cease all contact, and surrender any firearms. A hearing for a permanent restraining order is scheduled for early May.

In response to these threats, Donald filed for a temporary restraining order in Los Angeles County on April 15, 2025. The court granted the TRO, ordering Anwar to stay at least 100 yards away from Donald, his wife, their four children, and his brother. Additionally, Anwar is prohibited from contacting Donald, harassing him, or possessing firearms.

Donald, who is married to Erica Donald, has been known for keeping his personal life private. The couple shares a blended family, including their son and Donald's two children from a previous relationship. The ongoing harassment has undoubtedly placed a significant emotional strain on Donald and his family, highlighting the challenges public figures can face from individuals who develop obsessive fixations.​

A hearing to discuss a more permanent order has been scheduled for May 7, 2025. At this hearing, the court will determine whether to extend the restraining order or implement additional measures to ensure the safety of Donald and his family.

Aaron Donald's recent legal entanglements highlight the complexities public figures can face off the field. While the stalking allegations involve a deeply personal and distressing situation, the assault claims underscore the importance of thorough investigations and the role of evidence in legal proceedings. As these cases progress, they serve as a reminder of the challenges celebrities may encounter in their personal lives.

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