LOUISVILLE, Ky. — An attorney representing former NBA star Rajon Rondo claims a gun charge against him is unconstitutional.
According to court documents filed Wednesday in Indiana's Jackson County Superior Court, attorney Patrick Renn said the unlawful carrying of a handgun charge violates Rondo's Second Amendment rights. He cited a recent Supreme Court case, New York State Rifle & Pistol Association vs. Bruen, in his motion to dismiss the charge.
"Even before Bruen, federal cases expressed doubt that people even with felony convictions have historically been barred from gun ownership," Renn said.
Rondo was arrested in January in Jackson County following a traffic stop. An Indiana State Police trooper reported smelling marijuana in Rondo's vehicle, and discovered marijuana and drug paraphernalia in the car.
A loaded pistol was also found. Police said Rondo was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a protection order that was filed against him in August 2023.
According to police, Rondo admitted he was not permitted to carry the weapon.
ISP pulled Rondo over after a motorist reported his vehicle, a black Tesla, was travelling over 100 mph on I-65 and driving recklessly.
Rondo was booked on the following charges:
- Possession of a firearm while being prohibited.
- Possession of marijuana.
- Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Rondo played 16 seasons in the NBA, most recently with the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2021-22 season.
He was born in Louisville and played three years at Eastern High School before transferring to Oak Hill Academy in Virginia. Rondo then played three seasons at Kentucky and was drafted with the 21st pick in the first round in 2006.
Rondo was a four-time NBA all star. He ranks 14th all-time with 7,584 assists.
RELATED VIDEO