Much of the NBA community was surprised to learn that New Orleans Pelicans center Jaxson Hayes was arrested early Wednesday morning following a call about an alleged domestic disturbance that reportedly involved the big man getting combative with police and left both Hayes and an officer seeking treatment for injuries at a local hospital.
Per Andrew Lopez of ESPN, the Los Angeles Police Department offered more information on the incident via a Thursday press release.
Police say Hayes met with responding officers in the front yard of a residence and then attempted to prevent them from entering the home after they informed him they needed to speak with somebody inside the residence. Ultimately, Hayes reportedly pushed an officer into a wall and, after “two deployments of the taser, as well as bodyweight and physical force,” was apprehended and handcuffed.
Hayes posted a $25,000 bail but could face a maximum of three years in jail because he was arrested under “California Penal Code section 69, Resisting Arrest,” a charge that includes a suspect allegedly using violence to prevent officers from completing their duties.
The LAPD added its Force Investigation Department is reviewing the matter because of “the possibility of force being applied to Hayes’ neck during the use of force.” He is due in court on Jan. 24, 2022.
TMZ Sports reported Wednesday the Pelicans are aware of the story and are “working with Hayes’ reps and the NBA to get more information.”
