Lions' Spievey will undergo counseling

Detroit Lions safety Amari Spievey, facing domestic assault charges in his hometown, was granted a family violence education program Thursday in a Middletown, Conn., court.

If he completes the program successfully, Spievey could have all charges from the incident dismissed.

Spievey, who has played the last three seasons with the Lions, was charged last month with third-degree assault, risk of injury to a child and disorderly conduct following an argument with his girlfriend over child support.

Spievey will be allowed to attend counseling sessions out of state to fulfill the requirements of the deal because of his career.

The Lions begin their off-season workouts next week at their headquarters in Allen Park, Mich.

Spievey, a restricted free agent, signed a one-year contract during the off-season. He missed the last part of the 2012 season because of a concussion but has been cleared for contact.