A friend of Denver Nuggets star Carmelo Anthony allegedly punched out a 19-year-old autograph seeker who became belligerent when the basketball player refused to sign at a convenience store, Denver police say.
The alleged assault happened early March 18 at a 7-Eleven store in southwest Denver, according to a police report obtained by 9News.
The alleged victim, Brandon Herrera, told police the assault happened about 2:30 a.m. at 1850 S. Sheridan Blvd.
Herrera asked Anthony for an autograph and, when the basketball superstar refused, Herrera called him a “punk” and started an argument, said the police report, based on a witness statement.
A person with Anthony, described in the report as the athlete’s friend, then “punched, pushed and slammed” Herrera to the floor, the report said.
Police spokesman Sonny Jackson identified the suspect as Rahchine Craig, 30, of New York.
Craig then fled the convenience store with Anthony in a black Mercedes-Benz car, the report said. Herrera, the report said, had “visible bruises and scratches” but refused medical attention.
The report says Herrera is 6 feet tall and weighs 150 pounds; Craig is described as 5-foot-9 and weighing 200 pounds.
Jackson said police interviewed Craig and Anthony on Thursday. Craig was issued a summons for misdemeanor assault and disturbing the peace. He is scheduled to appear in Denver city court later this month, Jackson said.
Anthony “was not involved” in the assault, Jackson said.
Anthony has had well-documented troubles in the past, including a cameo appearance in the infamous “stop snitching” video and a possession of marijuana charge in Denver that was dropped by the city attorney’s office.
In December, Anthony was suspended 15 games and fined $782,340 by the NBA for his role during a brawl with the New York Knicks.
In July, a roommate and childhood friend of Anthony’s was arrested on suspicion of marijuana possession and cited for three traffic offenses while driving Anthony’s car in Lochbuie.
Staff writer Kieran Nicholson can be reached at 303-954-1822 or knicholson@denverpost.com.
