The NBA is reopening its investigation into Jaxson Hayes following the release of new video footage from a July 2021 incident involving the Los Angeles Lakers center and his then-girlfriend, Sofia Jamora.
The footage, obtained by TMZ, shows a physical altercation tied to a dispute over their pet dogs.
In the video, Hayes and Jamora can be heard arguing, with Jamora pleading, “Stop. Let go of me,” and threatening to call the police.
At one point, Hayes, who was playing for the New Orleans Pelicans at the time, is seen turning around and appearing to spit at Jamora before walking away.
The incident occurred just hours before Hayes was arrested for a separate altercation with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
The LAPD had responded to a domestic disturbance report, and Hayes reportedly resisted arrest, requiring officers to use physical force and deploy a taser to subdue him.
A spokesperson for the NBA stated that they are reopening the investigation in light of the newly surfaced footage.
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Hayes’ representative mentioned that the athlete had previously cooperated with an extensive investigation and will continue to do so as this case is revisited.
Jamora has claimed in a lawsuit that Hayes had previously abused her, and the case is still ongoing.
In the aftermath of the 2021 incident, Hayes faced 12 misdemeanor charges and was sentenced to three years of probation, including community service and domestic violence classes.
As of now, Hayes and the Lakers are cooperating with the renewed investigation, and the NBA has not yet made a decision regarding any potential disciplinary actions.
