Toronto Raptors President Masai Ujiri Avoids Battery Charges Against Sheriff's Deputy

BY Erika Marie 1479 Views
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Masai Ujiri
The two engaged in a shoving match when the Raptors took the NBA title.

It was a celebratory-filled moment back in June when the Toronto Raptors secured their first-ever NBA championship title by defeating the Golden State Warriors. The team joined together for hugs and tears, however, when Raptors owner Masai Ujiri made his way onto the court to join his crew, a sheriff's deputy wouldn't let him pass. The two men got into a shoving match, the end of which was captured by cameras, until other people on the scene verified Masai's identification. The Raptors owner wasn't wearing press credentials, so the deputy reportedly didn't know who he was.

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Following the physical altercation, the deputy's attorney's claimed that their client had a concussion and was on medical leave. A police report was filed against Masai for misdemeanor battery, and it was unknown if more charges would be added on because it was against an officer. On Tuesday, prosecutors in California announced that no official charges will be filed again Masai after months of investigation.

"I am extremely pleased with the decision," Masai reportedly said in a statement. "While these past months have been difficult waiting for a determination on this matter, I understand the nature of the process and am appreciative of the efforts of all involved. I am happy that this is now behind me and I look forward to the task of bringing another championship to the City of Toronto." Check out the clip that almost landed the Raptors owner in hot water below.

About The Author
Since 2019, Erika Marie has worked as a journalist for HotNewHipHop, covering music, film, television, art, fashion, politics, and all things regarding entertainment. With 20 years in the industry under her belt, Erika Marie moved from a writer on the graveyard shift at HNHH to becoming a Features Editor, highlighting long-form content and interviews with some of Hip Hop’s biggest stars. She has had the pleasure of sitting down with artists and personalities like DJ Jazzy Jeff, Salt ’N Pepa, Nick Cannon, Rah Digga, Rakim, Rapsody, Ari Lennox, Jacquees, Roxanne Shante, Yo-Yo, Sean Paul, Raven Symoné, Queen Naija, Ryan Destiny, DreamDoll, DaniLeigh, Sean Kingston, Reginae Carter, Jason Lee, Kamaiyah, Rome Flynn, Zonnique, Fantasia, and Just Blaze—just to name a few. In addition to one-on-one chats with influential public figures, Erika Marie also covers content connected to the culture. She’s attended and covered the BET Awards as well as private listening parties, the Rolling Loud festival, and other events that emphasize established and rising talents. Detroit-born and Long Beach (CA)-raised, Erika Marie has eclectic music taste that often helps direct the interests she focuses on here at HNHH. She finds it necessary to report on cultural conversations with respect and honor those on the mic and the hardworking teams that help get them there. Moreover, as an advocate for women, Erika Marie pays particular attention to the impact of femcees. She sits down with rising rappers for HNHH—like Big Jade, Kali, Rubi Rose, Armani Caesar, Amy Luciani, and Omerettà—to gain their perspectives on a fast-paced industry.

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