Businessman Convicted of Scamming NBA Star Dwight Howard
Georgia Businessman Calvin Darden Jr. Found Guilty of Fraud
A Georgia businessman, Calvin Darden Jr., was convicted on Friday of scamming former NBA star Dwight Howard out of millions of dollars in a bogus scheme to buy the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream. Darden was also convicted of cheating former NBA forward Chandler Parsons in a separate ruse.
Trial and Verdict
The jury returned its verdict against Darden on Friday afternoon after a trial in New York City. During the trial, Howard testified that Darden fooled him into giving him $7 million by convincing him that it was an investment toward the purchase of the Dream. In reality, a three-member investor group that included former player Renee Montgomery bought the team in 2021.
When a prosecutor asked Howard if he got anything in return for his $7 million, Howard testified that he got "a slap in the face." Prosecutors said Darden also teamed up with a sports agent to fool Parsons, who had a 9-year NBA career, into sending $1 million that was supposed to aid the development of James Wiseman, who currently plays in the NBA.
Sentencing and Asset Seizure
Prosecutors believe Darden will face between 11 years and 14 years in prison when he is sentenced early next year. The government plans to seize all of Darden’s assets, including his Atlanta home, luxury automobiles, art, and jewelry.
Background and Motivation
Darden’s conviction came eight years after he was sentenced to a year in prison for impersonating his successful father in a failed bid to buy Maxim magazine. In that case, Darden got leniency by cooperating with prosecutors against others charged in the case. This time, however, Darden turned down two offers by the government to plead guilty and went to trial.
Conclusion
Darden’s conviction serves as a reminder of the importance of due diligence and transparency in business dealings. The scam targeting Howard and Parsons highlights the need for vigilance and caution when dealing with unsolicited investment opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is Calvin Darden Jr.?
A: Calvin Darden Jr. is a Georgia businessman who was convicted of scamming former NBA star Dwight Howard out of millions of dollars.
Q: What was the scheme?
A: Darden convinced Howard that an investment was needed to buy the WNBA’s Atlanta Dream, when in reality, a three-member investor group bought the team in 2021.
Q: Who else was affected by the scam?
A: Former NBA forward Chandler Parsons was also targeted by Darden, who convinced him to send $1 million that was supposed to aid the development of James Wiseman.
Q: What is the potential sentence for Darden?
A: Prosecutors believe Darden will face between 11 years and 14 years in prison when he is sentenced early next year.
