The holiday may not have been so merry for some as Washington Wizards’ Gilbert Arenas is now under investigation by the NBA for a possible infraction in league rules.
Reported on Christmas Eve by CBSSports.com, a firearm was found within the player’s locker while at the Verizon Center. The gun, however, was unloaded and without information.
Although he has not been charged with any crime as of yet, there are strict weapons laws in D.C. that prohibit the possession of guns, whether it be in the open or concealed.
“The Washington Wizards have learned that Gilbert Arenas stored firearms in a locked container in his locker, unloaded and without ammunition,” the Wizards’ statement read. “The Wizards organization and Arenas promptly notified the local authorities and the NBA, are cooperating fully with law enforcement during its review of this matter and will have no further comment at this time.”
According to a source close to Arenas, the weapons were in his possession so that he could keep them away from his children as he no longer wanted them in his home after having his third child on December 9. The guns were also registered.
The weapons have been forfeited by the player to the authorities, according to Arenas who was unable to release a statement, by request of the league, but sent a text message instead.
Outside of D.C., Arenas may also face possible penalty from the NBA as they are allowed to legally own guns, but are permitted from keeping them in their company while on the property of the league.
“We’re aware of the situation and are working to gain a full understanding of the facts and relevant legal issues,” the NBA said in a statement
The past of Arenas has had previous weapons charges as he was suspended in the 2004-05 opener for the season when he plead no contest to a misdemeanor weapons and vehicles charge when he had a concealed weapon while driving without a license back in 2003.
