MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — 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.

In a statement tweeted by Aiello, Henderson said:

“I conclude that the player has not demonstrated that the process and procedures surrounding his discipline were not fair and consistent.” “He was afforded all the protections and rights to which he is entitled, and I find no basis to vacate or reduce the discipline.”

HH: I conclude that the player has not demonstrated that the process and procedures surrounding his discipline were not fair and consistent; — Greg Aiello (@gregaiello) December 12, 2014

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.