Rozier Lawyers Cite Text to Dismiss Betting Charges
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- Terry Rozier's attorney David Markus filed a motion to dismiss two charges, citing a text from co-defendant Deniro Laster that reads 'Dont tell chum bout the bet,' arguing it proves Rozier was unaware of the alleged gambling scheme.
- Federal prosecutors responded that they have 'developed evidence from multiple sources' indicating the disputed text chain does not relate to sports gambling, challenging its exculpatory value.
- David Markus also cited unnamed co-conspirator statements provided by the government, claiming they confirm Rozier did not know about the bets before the March 2023 game in question.
- Markus requested the case be moved from the Eastern District of New York to the Southern District of Florida, asserting that none of Rozier’s alleged actions occurred in New York and that trial in Brooklyn would cause 'unfairness and hardship.'
- Federal prosecutors opposed the venue change, maintaining their position that the case should remain in New York despite Rozier’s residence in Florida.
- Terry Rozier faces trial on Feb. 8, 2027, after pleading not guilty to charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, money laundering, and accepting a $100,000 bribe to manipulate his performance.
Why it matters: The outcome hinges on whether the court credits the text message as proof of Rozier’s ignorance or accepts the government’s claim that it’s unrelated to gambling—potentially setting a precedent for how digital communications are interpreted in insider-betting cases. A dismissal could undermine broader efforts to prosecute athletes in corruption schemes.
