Former NBA player Kermit Washington has been arrested for embezzlement, according to the Associated Press. (h/t Pro Basketball Talk) He has been released on bond.
Washington is being accused by prosecutors for embezzling about $500,000 in donations to his charity and using the money to pay for jewelry and vacations among other things. The money was intended to help the needy in Africa.
Washington was charged in Kansas City on Monday. The indictment claims that the transactions ranged from 2004 to 2013. The attorney in charge of the case claims that a “very small fraction” of the money donated to Washington’s charity were used for their intended purpose.
The 64-year-old played in the NBA during the 1970’s and 80’s, playing for the Lakers, Celtics, Clippers, and Blazers, as well as a six game stint for the Warriors after a five year retirement. He is best known for an infamous punch laid out to Rockets’ coach Rudy Tomjanovich.
There has not been any information give out yet regarding when Washington will stand trial. It certainly does not appear like he will be able to walk away unscathed by the allegations.
