Former NBA Star Ben McLemore Found Guilty of Assaulting Incapacitated Woman at Team Party: Shocking Verdict from Oregon Jury

Former NBA player Ben McLemore has been convicted of rape following a party in Lake Oswego, Oregon. A jury found him guilty of several charges, including unlawful sexual penetration and sexual abuse. However, he was acquitted of one count of sexual abuse.

The incident took place on October 3, 2021, during a gathering at the home of his teammate Robert Covington. Prosecutors argued that the encounter was non-consensual, while McLemore’s defense claimed it was consensual. The woman involved testified that she was severely intoxicated and unable to give consent. Disturbing images of her passed out after drinking were presented in court, highlighting her incapacitation.

She recounted waking up during the assault and feeling frozen with fear. “I don’t know who this person is,” she stated during her testimony. In a desperate attempt to escape the situation, she tried to slide off the couch, but McLemore pulled her back.

McLemore, on the other hand, claimed their interaction was consensual and that he left quickly after receiving a message from his wife. His defense argued that the situation was one of two drunk individuals.

Clackamas County District Attorney John Wentworth emphasized their commitment to justice, stating that celebrity status doesn’t shield one from prosecution. Recent statistics show that only about 19% of sexual assault cases reported to law enforcement lead to an arrest, highlighting the significance of this conviction.

Beyond the courtroom, this case has stirred significant discussion on social platforms, raising awareness about consent and accountability. The aftermath of such cases often leads to broader societal reflections, particularly concerning the treatment of sexual assault survivors.

McLemore was once a promising player, drafted seventh overall in 2013. After stints with several NBA teams, he spent recent years playing internationally. This conviction may have lasting impacts on his career, reputation, and the broader conversation about athletes’ conduct off the court.

For more details on sexual assault and related issues, you can refer to resources from the National Sexual Violence Resource Center here.

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Robert Covington, Ben McLemore, Crime, Oregon, General news, Juries, Indictments, Legal proceedings, Domestic News, OR State Wire, KS State Wire, Kansas, Sexual assault, Scott Healy, Kris Winemiller, Sports, Sexual abuse, Lisa Maxfield, John Wentworth, U.S. news