Ex-Lakers Forward Matt Barnes Arrested In Manhattan Beach
MANHATTAN BEACH (CBS/AP) – Former Los Angeles Lakers forward Matt Barnes was arrested Monday night for several traffic violations and allegedly threatening a public official.
KNX 1070's Pete Demetriou reports Manhattan Beach police arrested Barnes around 8:30 p.m. in front of Shellback Tavern at 116 Manhattan Beach Blvd.
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"Our officer was aware that Mr. Barnes had an outstanding misdemeanor traffic warrant out of our city. He attempted to make contact with Mr. Barnes. Mr. Barnes didn't cooperate and was eventually taken into custody," Lt. Steve Tobias said.
His arrest was caught on tape by a surveillance camera, according to the Shellback Tavern.
Authorities said the warrant was for driving with a suspended license. According to TMZ, Barnes had $26,000 in unpaid parking violations.
Barnes was released from custody after posting $51,000 bond around 11:20 p.m., police said.
"Funny how a small situation turns into a "Urban Legend".. A $26,000 traffic ticket?? Come on now smh.. Have a good night," Barnes tweeted early Tuesday. "Oh.. For all you perfect people out there looking at me w/your nose in the air, who have "NEVER" missed a court date for a "TRAFFIC VIOLATION" God Bless You..."
He is due in court in Torrance on Oct. 1. Threatening a public officials is a felony punishable by a $10,000 fine and one year in jail.
The unrestricted free agent has spent the past two seasons with the Lakers and ten years in the NBA.
Calls to the Lakers for comment were not returned to CBS2 as of early Tuesday morning, but officials did emphasize that Barnes is no longer a member of the team.
The 32-year-old played college basketball at UCLA.
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