Former NBA All-Star Shawn Kemp has pleaded guilty to second-degree assault in connection with a March 2023 shooting incident at the Tacoma Mall in Washington. The plea deal, finalized on May 27, 2025, allows Kemp to avoid a potentially lengthy trial and harsher penalties associated with the original charges.
Incident Overview
The incident occurred on March 8, 2023, when Kemp confronted individuals in a Toyota 4Runner in the Tacoma Mall parking lot. According to court documents, Kemp had tracked his stolen cellphone to the vehicle after a break-in at his own vehicle, during which several items were stolen, including business keys, a cellphone, documents, and charity sports memorabilia.
Kemp claimed that upon confronting the occupants of the 4Runner, he was fired upon and returned fire in self-defense. No injuries were reported, but two vehicles were damaged during the exchange.
Legal Proceedings and Plea Deal
Initially, Kemp faced charges of first-degree assault with a firearm enhancement and drive-by shooting, which could have resulted in a prison sentence of up to 15 years. However, the plea agreement reduced the charge to second-degree assault. Prosecutors cited issues with witness credibility and the unlawful possession of Kemp’s belongings by the victims as factors influencing the plea deal.
Under the terms of the plea, Kemp will be prohibited from owning firearms and must provide a DNA sample for law enforcement databases. Sentencing is scheduled for August 22, 2025, with prosecutors recommending a nine-month jail term, one year of community custody, and restitution.
Kemp’s Background and Future
Shawn Kemp, 55, is best known for his tenure with the Seattle SuperSonics from 1989 to 1997, during which he was a six-time NBA All-Star. Since retiring from professional basketball, Kemp has been involved in various business ventures, including owning a cannabis dispensary in Seattle. Following the plea deal, Kemp’s legal team emphasized his commitment to moving forward positively and promoting awareness about gun violence.
This case has drawn significant public attention due to Kemp’s high profile and the dramatic nature of the incident. The resolution marks the end of a tumultuous legal chapter for the basketball star, who now looks ahead to moving past the controversy.
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