The legal team representing Eastern Michigan basketball star Emoni Bates has reached a plea agreement with the Washtenaw County Prosecutor’s Office.
In exchange for the dropping of two felony gun charges, Bates will plead guilty to attempted illegal transportation of a weapon. This is a misdemeanor which can be cleared from his record as long as he completes a diversion program for youthful offenders.
Last month, a firearm was found in a car driven by Bates during a traffic stop in Superior Township. The former national high school player of the year claimed the car and the gun were not his.
Bates’ attorney, Steve Haney, says he’s aware of the optics of this case.
“I don’t think it was done because of his celebrity. I think it was done because it was the fair and right thing to do based on the facts.”
Bates’ suspension at EMU is now lifted, and he is free to attend classes and practice with the team.
The plea agreement is expected to be finalized in court on Wednesday.
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