A former basketball player for the Chicago Bulls and Temple University made recent headlines when he was indicted on several serious criminal charges in Lake County court. Allegedly, the former pro had been refused any subsequent massages from the massage therapist at a fitness center due to inappropriate behavior. Instead of respecting the request that he not return, he booked an appointment using a false name—that of NBA superstar Patrick Ewing. Following his appointment, the massage therapist called the police and all of the charges stem from that incident.
The following is a brief overview of the charges issued under Illinois law:
- Attempted criminal sexual assault—Criminal sexual assault is sexual penetration that involves either the force or threat of force, or a victim who is unable to give consent or to understand the nature of what is happening. Criminal sexual assault is a Class 1 felony, therefore attempt of this offense is charged as a Class 2 felony, which means up to seven years in prison.
- Criminal sexual abuse—The offense of criminal sexual abuse involves sexual conduct (other than penetration) that involves either the force or threat of force, or a victim who is unable to give consent or to understand the nature of what is happening. A first conviction of criminal sexual abuse is a Class 4 felony and can mean up to three years in prison.
- Aggravated battery—Aggravated battery occurs when a person makes unwanted physical contact with another person that causes great bodily harm, permanent disability, or permanent disfigurement. Prosecutors may charge aggravated battery as a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 felony, depending on the specific circumstances of a case. This means a conviction could mean up to 15 years in prison.
- Domestic battery—Domestic battery occurs when a person makes harmful or offensive physical contact with a family or household member. Domestic battery is a Class A misdemeanor, and conviction carries a possible sentence of up to one year jail time and fines up to $2,500.
If the former basketball pro is convicted of any of the charges he is facing, he will likely have to spend time behind bars. Though he requested that the indictment be kept confidential to protect his reputation, the judge refused and his charges made national headlines. Temple University has also rescinded an offer that had been on the table for him to coach at his alma mater. This just goes to show that even the accusation of criminal charges can lead to many different consequences that may affect your personal and professional life.
Contact a Chicago Criminal Defense Attorney for Help Today
Attorney Steven Goldman knows how serious criminal charges can be and how much the potential consequences may negatively affect your life. You do not want to risk a wrongful conviction or receiving a harsh sentence that may include fines, probation, or time behind bars. If you are facing any type or combination of criminal charges, you should always contact Goldman & Associates for help as soon as possible.
