This past Sunday, the former high school basketball phenom, Emoni Bates, has been arrested after sheriff’s deputies found a firearm inside his vehicle, reported Pete Thamel and Myron Medcalf for ESPN. Initially, Bates started his career at Memphis University, however, he transferred to Eastern Michigan this summer. During a routine traffic stop where the issues occurred. Due to the fact, that Bates didn’t stop at the intersection, per Derrick Jackson the public information officer of Washtenaw County’s sheriff’s office.
Just in: Emoni Bates, 18, is facing two felony gun charges after he was pulled over last night in Superior Township. Deputies found a gun in the vehicle. https://t.co/dHuOBzv2AR
— WXYZ Detroit (@wxyzdetroit) September 19, 2022
Many are discouraged by this upsetting news by Bates because of his potential. Bates has been on a downward trajectory since he began playing at the collegiate level. Sadly, this doesn’t put him back on track. He faced charges for possessing a hidden weapon and tampering with identification marks. The attorney that will be defending Bates throughout the case is Steve Haney.
While the news hasn’t been uplifting for Bates, the judge did grant a bond that demands Bates be released from jail immediately. Bates’s stance appears to be he was unaware of the firearm as he was borrowing the car that had the gun in it. In fact, Haney released a statement speaking on Bates’ case:
“Reserve judgment on this,” Haney said via a statement. “There’s more to the story. He borrowed a car, got pulled over, and a gun was found in the vehicle.”
What does Emoni Bates Future go from here?
According to Detroit Free Press, Bates can be facing imprisonment of up to five years, and a fine of up to $2,500. Not to mention, the penalty for altering an ID of a weapon is up to two years in prison with an additional $1,000 fine, as well.
However, if Bates can beat these charges and get back to playing basketball he’ll have to outlive the stigma of being a “bust”. The hype surrounding Bates in high school was unprecedented, sadly, he hasn’t lived up to the hype. During his time dealing with adversity, the University of Easter Michigan is in full support and wishes to deal with the matter at a better time.
“We are aware of a situation involving Emoni Bates, a student-athlete in men’s basketball,” stated the school. “Eastern Michigan University considers allegations of this kind with utmost seriousness. As per our policy, he has been suspended from practice and playing until the legal process concludes. As this is an ongoing legal matter, the University will refrain from providing additional comments at this time.”
