Roommates, many are expressing deep concern for former NBA star Delonte West. A recent video shows him rumored to be homeless and exhibiting erratic behavior that have many calling his mental health into question.
Close friends of Delonte West say they are currently trying to help him after disturbing video surfaced earlier this week showing him handcuffed and shirtless on the side of a road in Prince George’s County, just outside of Washington. Also in the video, Delonte was repeatedly beaten by an unidentified man as he lay face down in the street.
When asked why he had been attacked and if the physical altercation was an act of self-defense, Delonte stated he was walking down the street when the man approached him with a gun. However, that was the only coherent part of what he said, as he went off on an unintelligible rant that immediately sparked concerns for his mental health.
Prince George’s County Police Chief Henry P. Stawinski III further explained the situation, including admitting that the officer who recorded Delonte handcuffed on the street has been suspended pending an investigation into how the footage was leaked. Stawinski said the footage appeared from a cellphone and not an officer’s body camera.
He also said:
“In my view, I own that, this department owns that. That’s evidence, and it’s irresponsible for that to be placed in the hands of the public, particularly when you start identifying individuals who are still subject to a serious assault and investigation.”
Aaron Goodwin, Delonte’s former agent, officially confirmed that the handcuffed man in the video was indeed Delonte. He also revealed that he is currently recovering with family members following the incident.
Several NBA fixtures expressed their support and concern for Delonte on social media, including former teammates Jameer Nelson and Lance Allred, former coach Phil Martelli, Dez Bryant and Kendrick Perkins.
Delonte has reportedly been struggling with bipolar disorder. Back in February 2016, he was spotted wandering around a local fast food restaurant without any shoes. Then, last September he was seen on the streets again, allegedly thought to be homeless.
We want to send him our thoughts and prayers.
Roommates, what are your thoughts on this?
