Former Memphis Grizzlies player Tony Allen was arrested on Wednesday in Arkansas, facing multiple drug possession charges. The incident occurred when the Poinsett County Sheriff’s Department stopped a vehicle on Interstate 555, in proximity to Memphis. Allen, aged 43, was a passenger alongside 33-year-old William Hatton.
Tony Allen’s Arrest Details
An incident report from USA TODAY Sports indicates that law enforcement detected the smell of marijuana during the vehicle’s search. Upon exiting the vehicle, officers found a green leafy substance in Allen’s possession, later confirmed to be marijuana.
Further investigation of the vehicle revealed a cigarette box containing a white powdery substance, which tested positive for cocaine. Both Allen and Hatton were charged with:
- Possession of methamphetamine or cocaine (less than two grams)
- Possession of marijuana (less than four grams)
They were subsequently taken to the Poinsett County Detention Center in Harrisburg, Arkansas.
Tony Allen’s Career Highlights
Drafted by the Boston Celtics in 2004, Allen won an NBA championship with the team in 2008. He is more prominently known for his impactful years with the Grizzlies from 2010 to 2017. As a member of the “Core Four” alongside Mike Conley, Marc Gasol, and Zach Randolph, Allen became recognized as a defensive standout.
Throughout his career, he received three first-team All-Defensive selections while establishing a legacy in Memphis. Allen concluded his professional journey with the New Orleans Pelicans in 2018.
Legal Troubles Beyond the Court
In recent years, Allen has faced various legal challenges. In 2021, he was arrested for domestic assault and vandalism, although those charges were eventually dropped. More notably, in 2023, he was implicated among a group of former NBA players accused of defrauding the league’s health and welfare benefit plans. He ultimately pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges, resulting in community service and three years of supervised probation.
