Excessive force in self-defense? Six-time All-Star Kemp sentenced to 30 days in jail: allowed to serve at home

On August 23rd Beijing time, six-time All-Star Shawn Kemp was sentenced to 30 days in jail for a shooting incident in his parking lot, but the former NBA player will be allowed to serve the time at home.

A judge in Pierce County made the decision late Friday afternoon, and Kemp, 55, looked serious when the verdict was announced. Before sentencing, he expressed remorse in court for the actions that led the prosecutor to file criminal charges against him.

Of course, this case originated from an incident in 2023 at a Tacoma shopping center, where Kemp was accused of shooting at two men who allegedly stole some of his belongings, including a cellphone. Kemp initially pleaded not guilty, claiming he acted in "self-defense." However, in May, he pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of second-degree assault to resolve the matter.

Prosecutors had requested a 9-month jail term for Kemp, while his lawyer argued against any additional sentencing. Kemp had several friends supporting him in court, including former NFL superstar Marshawn Lynch.

The judge condemned Kemp’s actions, stating, "I cannot stress enough that this situation could have been easily avoided by simply walking away. Property can be replaced, but human life cannot." Besides the 30 days of home confinement, Kemp was also sentenced to 12 months of community supervision, a form of probation in Washington state. He will also be required to complete 240 hours of community service.

Kemp played 14 seasons in the NBA, was a six-time All-Star, and made three All-NBA teams. He played for the SuperSonics (now the Thunder), Cavaliers, Trail Blazers, and Magic.