INDIANAPOLIS – A second man has admitted to trying to cash in on a scheme involving former NBA player Jontay Porter, according to court documents.
The man, who has not been named, pleaded guilty in federal court to wire fraud and money laundering charges. He is the second person to admit involvement in the scheme, which involved attempting to use Porter’s identity to file fake tax returns and collect fraudulent refunds.
Porter, a former player for the Memphis Grizzlies, was not involved in the scheme and has not been charged with any crimes. The 23-year-old basketball star has since retired from professional sports and is focusing on business ventures.
According to court documents, the two men used Porter’s personal information to file false tax returns with the IRS in 2018 and 2019. The fraudulent returns claimed refunds totaling over $91,000, which were then transferred to bank accounts controlled by the defendants.
In a statement released by Porter’s lawyer, the former NBA player expressed his disappointment in the actions of the two men.
“I am disappointed that individuals would try to take advantage of my name and reputation in such a deceitful and unlawful manner,” Porter said. “I am grateful for the diligent work of law enforcement in uncovering this scheme and holding those responsible accountable.”
The first man involved in the scheme was sentenced to two years in federal prison earlier this year. The second man is scheduled to be sentenced in the coming months and could face a similar fate.
Porter, who was a highly touted prospect coming out of high school, played two seasons at the University of Missouri before declaring for the NBA draft in 2019. He was drafted by the Grizzlies with the 33rd overall pick but was waived by the team before ever playing in a regular-season game.
Since retiring from professional basketball, Porter has focused on building his brand and pursuing entrepreneurial ventures. He currently operates a clothing line and is involved in various charitable endeavors.
The incident involving the two men attempting to cash in on Porter’s name serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of identity theft and fraud in the digital age. Law enforcement officials urge individuals to safeguard their personal information and be wary of any suspicious activity involving their identity.
