Ben McLemore, a former NBA player once drafted in the lottery, appeared in Clackamas County Circuit Court in Oregon on Wednesday to face four s*x-related charges. These charges include first-degree rape and first-degree unlawful s*xual penetration, which carry a maximum sentence of 20 years each. Additionally, McLemore faces two counts of second-degree s*xual abuse, each carrying a maximum sentence of five years in prison. His next court date is scheduled for July 1 at 10 a.m.
McLemore was arrested on Tuesday at Portland International Airport by the U.S. Marshals Service on an outstanding felony warrant related to the charges. The allegations stem from an incident in Lake Oswego on Oct. 3, 2021, where the victim reported the assault occurring at a house on Cherry Lane. At the time of the alleged assault, McLemore was playing for the Trail Blazers.
Ex-NBA Draft bust Ben McLemore arraigned on first-degree rape, other sex crimes https://t.co/hzDQZ7ao4w pic.twitter.com/kENeewPiPr
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) April 11, 2024
The investigation faced delays as McLemore moved out of state and frequently traveled overseas for work. However, a grand jury indictment was issued in February after the victim testified and presented evidence.
Law enforcement commended the survivor’s bravery for coming forward and assured ongoing support. McLemore, now 31, last played in the NBA in 2022, completing 64 games for the Trail Blazers that season. He was drafted seventh overall by the Kings in the 2013 NBA Draft and has since played for several teams, including the Grizzlies, Rockets, Lakers, and Trail Blazers.
