Photo credit: sports.yahoo.com
Jaxson Hayes, a player for the Los Angeles Lakers, is facing renewed scrutiny from the NBA due to the emergence of video footage documenting an incident from July 2021 involving his former girlfriend, Sofia Jamora.
Note: The following content includes mentions of domestic violence.
The league’s investigation is being reopened following a report and the release of the video, which prompts grave concerns regarding Hayes’ conduct. NBA spokesperson Mike Bass confirmed the reopening of the inquiry, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.
TMZ disclosed the footage, which lasts approximately five and a half minutes, showcasing a confrontation between Hayes and Jamora. The video reportedly captures Hayes pushing and spitting at Jamora during their altercation. A moment in the recording shows Hayes entering Jamora’s room, culminating in a loud crash, followed by her pleas for him to stop.
Overview of the July 2021 Incident
This incident occurred while Hayes was playing for the New Orleans Pelicans, although it took place in Los Angeles. The police response led to Hayes’ arrest, where he was subsequently charged with a total of 12 misdemeanors. These included serious charges such as three counts of inflicting corporal injury on a spouse, alongside other offenses related to domestic violence, vandalism, and resisting arrest.
In February 2022, Hayes entered a no-contest plea to charges of false imprisonment and resisting arrest. Consequently, the other ten charges were dismissed. His sentencing included three years of probation, a requirement of 450 hours of community service, and attendance at domestic violence education classes.
Initially, the NBA had launched its investigation soon after Hayes’ arrest in July 2021, but no disciplinary measures were taken at that time.
Revisiting the Case After Three Years
The rejuvenation of the investigation pivots primarily on the newly released video; however, the timing behind its release raises questions. Reports suggest that the footage emerged as part of a fresh lawsuit initiated by Jamora’s legal representation, in which she alleges that Hayes may have compensated an officer involved in the arrest, details of which remain unclear.
In response to these developments, a spokesperson for Hayes indicated that they would continue to cooperate with the league during the renewed investigation. A representative of the Lakers confirmed the team’s commitment to collaborating with the NBA concerning this matter. Meanwhile, Jamora’s spokesperson expressed that as a victim of domestic violence, she is supportive of the investigation into Hayes’ behavior and intends to fully cooperate throughout the process.
Source
sports.yahoo.com