LOS ANGELES — Former Memphis Grizzlies star Zach Randolph was arrested Wednesday night on felony drug charges.
According to the Los Angeles Times, a gang unit was near a housing project in the Nickerson Gardens area when they came upon a group of people blocking a road. They were reportedly also drinking, smoking marijuana and playing loud music.
Officers chased members of the group and caught the NBA player along with another man. As they were taking them into custody, the scene got out of hand. The group reportedly surrounded the officers, leading to additional officers being called to the scene to set up a skirmish line.
Five police cruisers and a sheriff’s vehicle had their windows smashed and tires slashed.
No officers were injured.
Two guns, two vehicles and drugs were collected as evidence.
Randolph was charged with possession of marijuana with intent to sale.
The 36-year-old just signed a two-year, $24 million deal with the Sacramento Kings back in July.
His arrest Wednesday comes as a shock to Grizzlies fans and many in the city of Memphis who know Randolph as a bright spot for the community.
In January, Randolph donated $20,000 to MLGW’s Plus-1 program, which helps pay utility services for people in need. It was the seventh time in his career he donated to MLGW.
He was the recipient of the NBA Cares Community Assist Award and served the community through the Memphis Union Mission and the Memphis Boys & Girls Clubs among others.
Video shows a rowdy scene in Los Angeles during Randolph’s arrest.
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