Blazers' Randolph won't be charged (AP) Updated: 2006-09-21 09:31
PORTLAND, Ore. - No charges will be filed against Portland Trail Blazers
forward Zach Randolph in connection with a sexual assault report taken by police
last month, Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schrunk said.
Randolph was never named as a suspect by police. The complaint was made
Aug. 14.
Schrunk announced Wednesday that he will not prosecute the case. No further
details were immediately released.
The Trail Blazers issued a statement saying they were satisfied that Randolph
was cleared.
"We're undertaking appropriate steps to work with Zach and his
representatives to ensure that he understands the expectations for conduct by
all of our players as representatives of this team and our city," the statement
said.
Randolph led the Blazers in scoring and rebounding last season, with 18
points and eight rebounds per game, as the team finished with the worst record
in the NBA at 21-61 ¡ª missing the playoffs for a third straight year.
Stephen A. Houze, Randolph's attorney, issued a statement on the Blazers' Web
site on behalf of the forward.
"This event has helped Zach look at his life circumstances, and he realizes
that he is a fortunate person. Throughout this investigation he has enjoyed the
support of his family, friends, loyal fans, teammates, and the Portland Trail
Blazer organization," the statement said. "Zach wants to express his sincere
appreciation to all of them as well as his regret for the embarrassment and
concern they have experienced."
In June, the Trail Blazers decided not to discipline Randolph after he was a
passenger in a traffic stop that resulted in citations to the driver for speed
racing, careless driving, failure to obey a traffic signal and no front license
plate.
Two loaded handguns, belonging to Randolph, also were found in the car, but
police said Randolph was not cited because he has a concealed weapons permit.
|