LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Former NBA player and Louisville native Rajon Rondo was arrested on firearm and drug charges in southern Indiana Sunday when officers said he was stopped for driving recklessly while a minor was in the car.
According to court document, at about 1 p.m., someone called to report a black 2022 Tesla traveling recklessly and driving in excess of 100 mph on I-65 South in Bartholomew County.
An Indiana State Police trooper spotted the vehicle - which was tinted and without a license plate, but not speeding - and performed a traffic stop as he crossed into Jackson County.
The trooper searching the vehicle of 37-year-old Rondo reported smelling marijuana coming from the vehicle. The trooper also found suspected marijuana and drug paraphernalia, as well as a loaded pistol.
Police said Rondo was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a protection order filed against him in August 2023. According to police, when asked if was allowed to carry a gun, Rondo said he was not.
Rondo was arrested and transported to the Jackson County Jail where he paid an undisclosed bond and was released. Rondo's son was in the vehicle during the incident and was released to a family member.
Rondo was booked on the following charges:
- Possession of a firearm while being prohibited.
- Possession of marijuana.
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Rondo will soon be scheduled for an initial appearance in the Jackson County Superior Court.
Rondo played 16 seasons in the NBA, most recently with the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2021-22 season.
He was born in Louisville and played three years at Eastern High School before transferring to Oak Hill Academy in Virginia. Rondo then played three seasons at Kentucky and was drafted with the 21st pick in the first round in 2006.
Rondo was a four-time NBA all star. He ranks 14th all-time with 7,584 assists.
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