Bengals' Benson begins Texas assault jail term

AUSTIN, Texas - Cincinnati running back Cedric Benson has begun serving a 20-day jail term in Texas to settle two misdemeanor assault cases.

The former University of Texas star was sentenced Monday in Austin and had planned to surrender Oct. 17, during Cincinnati's bye week.

But Travis County Jail records show Benson was booked late Tuesday.

Benson's jail time could be shortened with possible credit for time served when arrested.

The 28-year-old was arrested last year for allegedly punching a bar employee. He's pleaded no contest to assault with injury.

Last month he was accused of punching an ex-roommate. Benson pleaded no contest to assault with bodily injury with family violence. That case will be dismissed if Benson does 30 hours of community service and pays restitution.

In 2008, Benson was arrested in Austin, Texas after he allegedly failed a sobriety test while operating a 30-foot boat. Police said he resisted arrest before being hit with pepper spray and dragged ashore by officers.