Arrest of Samson Nacua Linked to Theft of Lakers Player's SUV

Samson Nacua, the older brother of Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua, was arrested on December 17, 2025, along with 27-year-old Trey Rose, for allegedly taking the SUV of Los Angeles Lakers forward Adou Thiero without consent. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department reported that deputies were called to the One Hotel in West Hollywood after the vehicle was tracked to that location. Upon arrival, they found the SUV had been valeted, and security footage helped identify the suspects, leading to their arrest on charges of taking a vehicle without the owner's consent.

NBC Los AngelesBrother of Puka Nacua, a former UFL football player arrested for theft of NBA players vehicleEssentiallySports“Rams PR in the Toilet”: Fans React After Puka Nacua’s Brother Arrest News Piles Onto Team’s Disastrous WeekKABC - Los Angeles NewsRams Star Puka Nacua’s Brother Arrested in Alleged SUV Theft Linked to Lakers RookieFox News (website)

Samson Nacua, 27, has had a tumultuous career in professional football, playing for teams in both the NFL and the United Football League (UFL). He played college football at the University of Utah and Brigham Young University (BYU), where he had a successful stint alongside his brother Puka. Despite his potential, he went undrafted in 2022 and had brief tenures with the Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints, failing to secure a permanent roster spot. Most recently, he played for the Michigan Panthers in the UFL, where he faced suspension earlier this year for slapping a fan during a game.

EssentiallySports

The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department confirmed the ongoing investigation into the incident, stating, "The investigation is currently active and ongoing." As of now, both suspects remain in custody, and it is unclear whether they have retained legal representation. No comments have been made by Adou Thiero or the Nacua family regarding the incident.

NBC Los Angeles

The arrest has drawn significant media attention, particularly due to the contrasting public images of the Nacua brothers. While Puka Nacua has emerged as a star in the NFL, leading the Rams with impressive statistics this season, his brother's legal troubles have overshadowed his achievements. Critics have noted the negative impact this incident could have on Puka's reputation, especially as he has recently faced scrutiny for controversial comments made during a livestream about NFL officiating.

Daily Mail

While multiple sources confirm the arrest and the circumstances surrounding it, details about the initial theft of the SUV remain unclear. It has not been established when or where the vehicle was taken, and law enforcement has not confirmed whether a formal theft report was filed by Thiero.

NBC Los Angeles

As the investigation continues, the Nacua family faces increased scrutiny from both sports fans and the media. Puka Nacua is expected to focus on his upcoming games with the Rams, while the implications of his brother's arrest may linger in the public eye, potentially affecting his performance and public perception.

Rams Star Puka Nacua’s Brother Arrested in Alleged SUV Theft Linked to Lakers Rookie

• “The investigation is currently active and ongoing.” — Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department

Fox News (website)

• “The refs are the worst. These guys are lawyers,” — Puka Nacua, on NFL officiating.

New York Post