Former Boston Celtics guard Tony Allen was arrested on Wednesday in Arkansas on drug-related charges following a traffic stop initiated by local law enforcement. According to the Poinsett County Sheriff’s Office, deputies stopped a vehicle traveling along Interstate 555, where Allen was a passenger and a driver named William Hatton was behind the wheel.
Upon approaching the vehicle, the deputy noticed a strong odor of marijuana emanating from inside. This prompted officers to instruct both Allen and Hatton to exit the car for further investigation. During a search, officers discovered a package containing a green leafy substance, later confirmed to be marijuana, on Allen’s person. Additionally, several items of drug paraphernalia were found in the vehicle, which Hatton claimed ownership of.
Further inspection revealed a cigarette box in the passenger seat pouch, where Allen had been seated, containing a clear plastic wrapper filled with a white powdery substance that subsequently tested positive for cocaine. Consequently, both Allen and Hatton were charged with possession of methamphetamine or cocaine as well as possession of marijuana. Hatton also faced charges for possessing drug paraphernalia and for making an improper lane change.
Both men were taken into custody and transported to the Poinsett County Detention Center, and Hatton’s vehicle was towed from the scene.
Tony Allen, who was drafted by the Celtics in the first round of the 2004 NBA Draft as the 25th overall pick, enjoyed a six-season career in Boston and is celebrated for his defensive prowess. He played a significant role in the Celtics’ 2008 championship win. After his time in Boston, Allen continued his career with the Memphis Grizzlies.
This incident marks another legal challenge for Allen, who was previously involved in a healthcare fraud case in 2021 along with four other former Celtics. He pleaded guilty in 2023 to conspiracy related to that scheme, managing to avoid prison time.
While this recent arrest is concerning given Allen’s storied basketball career, it serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by athletes after their professional sports careers, highlighting the importance of support systems and addressing personal issues.