Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin has been charged with one count of misdemeanor battery after an October 19 altercation in a Las Vegas nightclub.
According to the Clark County District Attorney’s office filing on Wednesday, Griffin, 25, “willfully and unlawfully used force or violence” against Daniel Schuman. Griffin allegedly squeezed Schuman’s hand and shoulder and slapped him in the face. According to reports at the time of the incident, Griffin was angry by the camera flashes in his face and grabbed Schuman’s phone. The incident occurred during the Clippers training camp, when the team was visiting Las Vegas for a preseason game. Teammates DeAndre Jordan and Chris Paul were with Griffin at the club that night, but were not involved in the alleged incident.
“I’m really not allowed to speak on that,” Griffin said before practice Thursday. “But I’m very confident in the situation, so once I can [speak on it], I will.” He added that he wishes his team didn’t have this distraction.
According to police, the maximum penalty if convicted is six months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
Court records obtained Wednesday show the 6’10” baller is due for arraignment in Las Vegas on Dec. 8.