Lakers' Jordan Hill Charged With Felony Assault
LOS ANGELES (CBS) — Los Angeles Lakers forward Jordan Hill has been charged with third-degree felony assault resulting from an altercation with his girlfriend, according to the Houston district attorney's office.
The charges were filed by the Harris County District Attorney Monday.
The alleged attack happened on Feb. 29 at Hill's Houston-area home, however the victim did not report the incident until March 29.
Hill, 24, is accused of choking his girlfriend, from Florida, during a fight about their romantic future, the district attorney's office said.
During the fight, the victim threw Hill's two cell phones to the floor at which point Hill became angry and reportedly began hitting her in the legs with his fists, according to officials.
"Then the Defendant grabbed and pulled her off the couch and dragged her over to where the phones were and threw her against a wall," records said. "She stated that the Defendant put her into a choke hold and her neck was in the bend of his elbow and the Defendant's action caused restriction to her breathing causing her to gasp for air."
The victim told officials she suffered bruises on her legs and upper body.
Hill and the woman had been in a relationship for two years at the time of the attack, court records show.
A warrant for his arrest is expected to be issued Monday after paperwork is completed.
If convicted, Hill could face 10 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
"I'm saddened to learn of the accusations that were filed against me today. At this time I cannot comment furthur other than to say my attorneys are working to gather all of the facts and evidence and I plan to cooperate completely with the authorities." Hill said in a statement. " I'd like to apologize to the Lakers organization and to all of their fans for the untimeliness of these accusations. I promise to keep my focus and attention on the playoffs during this time and to helping my team win another championship."
Hill, formerly a Houston Rocket, joined the Lakers in March after Derek Fisher was traded.
Hill's first court appearance is scheduled for Tuesday at 9 a.m. in Houston, the same day the Lakers play the Denver Nuggets in Los Angeles in the first-round of the NBA playoffs.
"We are aware of the media reports alleging an incident involving Jordan Hill from two months ago when he was a member of the Houston Rockets. We do not have any details regarding these reports and therefore, as well as due to the personal and legal aspects, it would not be appropriate for us to comment," the Lakers organization said in a statement Monday.
