Deshawndre Washington, a former NMSU basketball player accused of hazing, appeared virtually in court Monday for the first time since failing to appear at his own trial, instead playing in an overseas tournament.
LAS CRUCES, N.M. —
Deshawndre Washington, a former New Mexico State University basketball player accused of hazing, appeared virtually in a Las Cruces courtroom Monday for a motion hearing.
The hearing focused on Washington, who missed his trial in August to play a basketball tournament in Lebanon. 3rd Judicial District Court Judge Conrad Perea ruled that two of Washington’s former teammates, Kim Aiken Jr. and Doctor Bradley, who were also involved in the hazing scandal, will now be deposed by the state. Both men accepted plea deals nearly two years ago, agreeing to testify against Washington in exchange for reduced charges and sentencing.
An amended gag order has also been issued for Washington’s attorneys, agent, and any governmental agencies involved in the case. Additionally, another hearing for Washington scheduled for Monday morning revolving around a felony failure to appear charge was canceled.
Washington was indicted by a grand jury in October on that charge, however, the New Mexico Department of Justice dismissed it last week.
KOAT legal expert John Day said, “The fact they dismissed it now might suggest that they are working with the State Department to try to get him extradited, and for some reason, the fact there’s a new charge complicated this.”
