Full Breakdown
Prosecutors Seek Superseding Bribery Indictment Against NBA Guard Terry Rozier
4/28/2026, 10:21:55 PM
New Superseding Charges Against Terry Rozier
On April 27, 2026, prosecutors in the Eastern District of New York announced a superseding indictment against former Charlotte Hornets and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier. The indictment adds sports bribery and honest-services wire fraud charges, naming the NBA as a victim. Prosecutors said they have “developed evidence that Mr. Rozier solicited and accepted a bribe.” The new charges are slated for grand-jury presentation by mid-May, with filing expected by May 14. The indictment highlights concerns about the integrity of NBA games and betting markets.
Background and Evidence
The investigation began after unusual betting on the March 23, 2023, Hornets-Pelicans game. Sportsbooks saw a surge in wagers on the under for Rozier’s points, rebounds and assists, leading to a temporary prop-bet suspension. Rozier left after nine minutes with five points, two assists and four rebounds, citing a foot injury. Prosecutors allege Rozier told childhood friend Deniro Laster he would exit early; Laster allegedly sold the tip to bettors who placed over $200,000 in wagers, profiting tens of thousands. The superseding indictment claims Rozier deprived “the NBA and the Charlotte Hornets of honest services.”
Official Statements
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin Farrell told the court that the government has evidence Rozier solicited and accepted a bribe. The Justice Department said Rozier deprived the NBA and the Hornets of honest services. Rozier’s lawyer, Jim Trusty, argued the original indictment rests on an invalid legal theory and warned the superseding indictment will contain problems.
Challenges and Gaps
Legal analysts note that the “honest-services” theory was narrowed by the Supreme Court, casting doubt on its applicability. Defense counsel says the evidence relies on speculative intent rather than a demonstrable quid pro quo. Sources differ on the charge wording—some cite “honest services wire fraud,” others “honest services fraud.” Filing dates are reported as “mid-May” or specifically May 14, and the number of co-defendants ranges from six to over 30.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Rozier's attorney, Jim Trusty, told ESPN, “Our motion to dismiss is based on the idea that they picked an invalid legal theory to prosecute Terry Rozier.” — Jim Trusty, attorney
- “developed evidence that Mr. Rozier solicited and accepted a bribe” — Kaitlin Farrell, Assistant U.S. Attorney
- “the NBA and the Charlotte Hornets of Mr. Rozier’s honest services.” — Government attorney (U.S. Attorney’s Office)
- “We will give a hard look at the superseding indictment,” — Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall (as reported)
Next Steps
The superseding indictment is expected by mid-May, after which a grand jury will consider the added counts. Rozier remains free on a $3 million bond, with no trial date set. The NBA will continue its internal review of betting policies while the federal case proceeds.
