Ex-NBA Star Rajon Rondo Arrested on Gun and Drug Charges

NBA veteran Rajon Rondo faced an arrest on Sunday in Jackson County, Indiana, on misdemeanor charges of unlawful possession of a firearm, drug paraphernalia, and marijuana.

The incident unfolded after Rondo was pulled over for a traffic violation, during which the officer detected the odor of marijuana, leading to the discovery of a firearm.

Former NBA player Rajon Rondo was arrested on preliminary gun and drug charges in southern Indiana Sunday after officers said he was stopped for driving recklessly while a minor was in the car.https://t.co/E1ELtImcXC

— WTHR.com (@WTHRcom) January 30, 2024

The arrest took a noteworthy turn as Rondo is legally barred from possessing a firearm due to emergency protective orders issued against him in 2022.

This stemmed from an earlier incident where he allegedly wielded a gun during a family dispute at his Louisville residence.

Following the episode, Ashley Bachelor, the mother of Rondo's children, obtained an emergency protective order against him. The order was subsequently dismissed by a judge a month later.

Rondo, a seasoned NBA player and two-time champion, had a 16-season career in the league, commencing with the Boston Celtics in 2006, where he clinched his first championship in his sophomore season.

Over the years, he played for various teams, securing his second NBA title with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020. The four-time NBA All-Star and four-time NBA All-Defensive Team honoree most recently played 21 games with the Cleveland Cavaliers during the 2021-22 season.

Promptly after the arrest, Rondo posted bail and was released. His initial court hearing is slated for February 27 in Jackson County Superior Court.

The incident adds a legal wrinkle to Rondo's career and personal life, highlighting the complexities of his interactions with law enforcement and the judiciary.

The arrest underscores the challenges faced by Rondo, who, despite his illustrious basketball career, now confronts legal issues related to firearm possession and drug-related charges.

As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact Rondo's public image and potentially his future involvement in professional basketball or other endeavors.