49ers release tight end Bruce Miller after arrest on assault charge

SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- TheSan Francisco 49ersreleased tight end Bruce Milleron Monday afternoon after he was arrested on suspicion of assault early Monday morning in San Francisco.

According to San Francisco Sheriff's Department holding records, Miller was arrested at 11:25 am PT Monday and taken to San Francisco County Jail. He is being held on $178,000 bond and being charged with assault with a deadly weapon (not a firearm), two counts of criminal threats, battery and elder abuse.

The police said they were called to the Marriott on Fisherman's Wharf at approximately 2:45 a.m. after Miller tried to enter a hotel room occupied by an elderly couple. The couple's 29-year-old son, staying in the next room, then told Miller he was at the wrong room. Miller, who was intoxicated at the time, attacked the son and his 70-year-old father, who came to his son's defense, police said.

The father was punched by Miller and both men were taken to the hospital for their injuries, police said.

KTVU-TV first reported the arrest.

The 49ers acknowledged the initial report in a statement on Monday morning.

"The San Francisco 49ers organization is aware of the media report regarding Bruce Miller," the statement said. "We are gathering the relevant facts of this matter and will continue to monitor the situation."

A little later in the day, the organization tweeted that Miller had been released.

Miller was also arrested in March 2015 in Santa Clara on suspicion of spousal battery after his then-fiancée accused him of shoving her and smashing her cellphone during an argument.

He denied assaulting the woman and pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge. He had to attend a 16-week anti-domestic-violence counseling course.

Miller, 29, was entering his sixth season with the team and represented the tight ends on the team's leadership council, which includes a player from every position.

Miller's release leaves the Niners with three tight ends on the roster.

Miller joined the 49ers in 2011 as a fullback after playing defensive end in college. He was a key part of San Francisco's teams that went to three straight NFC title games and one Super Bowl in his first three years. In 77 games over five seasons, has 62 yards rushing on 28 carries, adding 76 catches for 734 yards.

He moved to tight end this season under new coach Chip Kelly, who does not use a fullback in his offense. Miller made the team as the fourth tight end behind Vance McDonald, Garrett Celek and Blake Bell.

An email by The Associated Press to Miller's agent and lawyer, Jack Reale, was not immediately returned Monday. Miller also did not respond immediately to a text message seeking comment.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.