Lakers center DeMarcus Cousins will not face harassment charges, attorney says

Harassment charges against DeMarcus Cousins have been dropped, his attorney, Moshae Donald, said.

“I am pleased to announce all criminal charges against DeMarcus Cousins have been dropped,” Donald said in a statement following a court proceeding in Mobile, Ala., on Friday that Cousins attended. “The case is dismissed and Mr. Cousins is looking forward to moving onward with his life and career as a professional basketball player.”

Cousins had been accused of threatening to kill his ex-girlfriend, Cristy West, during a disagreement about whether their son could attend his wedding. Audio of their conversation was published by TMZ and given to the Mobile Police Department, which issued a warrant for Cousins’ arrest, according to police spokeswoman Charlette Solis.

A person familiar with the proceedings said the warrant was later withdrawn and Cousins was arraigned, but the Mobile city attorney ultimately decided to drop the charges.

Attempts to confirm the charges had been dropped with the city of Mobile and West were unsuccessful.

Cousins is expected to rejoin the Lakers on Saturday in Memphis, where the team is playing on the second night of back-to-back games.

The NBA announced an investigation into the accusation against Cousins. The status of that investigation is unclear. League investigations are not contingent on criminal charges.

“We are reviewing the outcome of today’s proceedings,” an NBA spokesman said Friday evening.

The Lakers signed Cousins to a one-year deal worth $3.5 million this summer. He tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee while participating in a five-on-five scrimmage in August and had surgery shortly thereafter. Cousins has traveled with the team and been present for their practices.

Although it is unlikely Cousins will be able to play this season, the Lakers have not ruled out his return at some point.