Most Shocking Arrests of Professional Athletes
Sports thrive on discipline and performance, but even the brightest careers can collapse in a moment of recklessness. Over the years, some athletes have gone from celebrated icons to cautionary tales after shocking arrests that stunned fans, destroyed reputations, and sometimes ended entire careers. Here are some of the most infamous cases.
O.J. Simpson (NFL) – 1994
The murder case of O.J. Simpson became one of the biggest stories in American history. After Nicole Brown Simpson and Ron Goldman were found dead, police tried to arrest the former NFL star, which led to the now-famous white Ford Bronco chase. The world watched as the case played out live on television. Simpson was found not guilty in criminal court, but a later civil case held him liable for the deaths. Years later, he went to prison for armed robbery in Las Vegas.
Mike Tyson (Boxing) – 1992
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Paula R. Lively from Zanesville
Mike Tyson’s boxing prowess made him a global star, but his 1992 conviction for violating Desiree Washington’s rights destroyed his image. He served three years in prison before returning to the ring. The comeback didn’t erase the public’s memory of the crime, and his reputation never fully recovered. Tyson remains one of sports’ most polarizing figures, both admired and criticized for his turbulent life.
Kobe Bryant (NBA) – 2003
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Gene Wang
Kobe Bryant’s arrest in Colorado shocked fans who viewed him as the face of the NBA. A hotel employee accused him of assault, and while the case was dropped when she refused to testify, a civil settlement followed. Bryant admitted to adultery but said the encounter was consensual. His reputation suffered a serious setback, yet he successfully rebuilt his career and public image.
Michael Vick (NFL) – 2007
Michael Vick’s career came crashing down when investigators uncovered an illegal dogfighting ring tied to his property. He served nearly two years in prison after pleading guilty to federal charges. The scandal cost him millions of dollars and a position on the team. When he returned to the NFL, he worked hard to rebuild his image and spoke out against animal cruelty.
Ray Rice (NFL) – 2014
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Keith Allison
Ray Rice faced public outrage after a video surfaced showing him attacking his fiancée in an elevator. The footage changed how the NFL handled domestic violence cases overnight. His contract was terminated, and he never played again. Rice later became an advocate for awareness, but the incident remains one of the league’s lowest points.
Chauncey Billups, Terry Rozier & Damon Jones (NBA) – 2025
The basketball world was stunned when federal prosecutors announced two investigations: “Operation Nothing But Bet” and “Operation Royal Flush.” Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier, Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups, and former Cavaliers guard Damon Jones were arrested in connection with illegal sports betting and rigged poker games linked to organized crime. FBI Director Kash Patel called the case one of the most shocking in modern sports. The NBA placed Billups and Rozier on leave as they await trial.
Plaxico Burress (NFL) – 2008
Plaxico Burress made headlines after accidentally shooting himself in the leg inside a New York nightclub. Although the injury was minor, he was charged under the state’s strict gun laws and sentenced to two years in prison. His fall from Super Bowl champion to inmate became a cautionary tale about the dangers of ego and recklessness.
Aaron Hernandez (NFL) – 2013
Aaron Hernandez had everything: fame, talent, and money. Then came his arrest for the murder of Odin Lloyd. He was convicted in 2015 and later took his own life in prison. The story of Hernandez remains one of the darkest examples of wasted potential in professional sports.
Lawrence Taylor (NFL) – 2010
Lawrence Taylor’s arrest for third-degree statutory rape and solicitation stunned fans of the New York Giants. He received six years of probation as part of a plea deal. The case added to a long list of legal problems that followed him throughout his post-football life.
Rae Carruth (NFL) – 1999
Rae Carruth’s involvement in the murder of his pregnant girlfriend, Cherica Adams, left the sports world in disbelief. He hired someone to carry out the crime and was convicted of conspiracy to commit murder. Carruth served 18 years in prison and was released in 2018, but his name remains linked to one of the most horrifying cases in sports.