Former NBA star Lamar Odom has pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor charges stemming from a January traffic stop in Las Vegas, according to court records.
Odom’s attorney entered the plea Tuesday in Clark County court. The case centers on allegations of driving under the influence, along with additional traffic violations. A bench trial is scheduled for July 7.
Authorities say Odom was arrested in the early morning hours of Jan. 17 after Nevada State Police stopped his vehicle on Interstate 15. Officers reported that he was traveling at a high rate of speed and driving erratically before being pulled over.
Police documents allege the former Los Angeles Lakers forward exceeded 100 mph and failed field sobriety tests. Investigators also noted signs of impairment during the stop.
Details of the Arrest
According to the arrest report, troopers initially observed Odom driving around 90 mph before accelerating further as officers attempted to catch up. The report states he changed lanes without signaling and displayed inconsistent driving behavior.
Officers eventually stopped the vehicle and conducted a roadside investigation. Authorities allege Odom showed signs of impairment and later failed sobriety testing.
The charges include DUI and traffic-related offenses such as excessive speeding and improper lane changes.
Odom was taken into custody and later released. The case remains pending, and the allegations have not been proven in court.
Legal Response and Personal Context
Odom’s attorney filed the not guilty plea on his behalf. The former NBA champion did not appear in court for the proceeding.
In the weeks following the arrest, Odom reportedly entered a treatment program to address substance use concerns. His representatives have said he is focused on maintaining his health and avoiding relapse.
Odom, 46, has previously spoken publicly about his struggles with addiction. He survived a near-fatal overdose in 2015 and has since worked toward recovery.
The case adds to a complex personal history that has unfolded both on and off the court. Odom was a key contributor to two NBA championship teams with the Lakers and remains a well-known public figure.
Legal experts note that misdemeanor DUI cases in Nevada can carry penalties including fines, license suspension and mandatory education programs if a defendant is convicted.