In what’s perhaps the most shocking incident of a celebrity not facing jail time for their crimes, former NBA player DeShawn Stevenson was never imprisoned following his sexual assault of a minor. In 2001, a 20-year-old Stevenson was arrested for the statutory rape of a 14-year-old girl. The evidence against him, which included a recorded phone call where he admitted to his crimes and witness statements from the victim, was overwhelming, and he even plead no contest to the charges. Regardless, he was still spared time behind bars.
Instead, the shooting guard was given a $1,100 fine and 100 hours of community service. In a statement following his sentencing, which was published by ESPN, the player said, “Ultimately, I think this situation has made me grow as a person and man. It has given me a new respect and appreciation for the opportunities I have been blessed with in my life and career.” His lawyer added that Stevenson had since apologized to the girl and her family.
It wasn’t just the legal system that declined to serve any full, anticipated punishment to Stevenson, either. The NBA also failed to hold Stevenson accountable for his crimes, and he continued to play in the league until 2013. As if that wasn’t enough, in 2011, following a championship win with the Mavericks, Stevenson found himself in more hot water when he was charged with public intoxication. While he was released from police custody almost immediately, he once again walked away without facing a single professional penalty.
If you or anyone you know has been a victim of sexual assault, help is available. Visit the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network website or contact RAINN’s National Helpline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).
If you or someone you know may be the victim of child abuse, please contact the Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-Child (1-800-422-4453) or contact their live chat services.
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Nicki
