POINSETT COUNTY, Ark. (KAIT) – Former Memphis Grizzlies player Tony Allen was arrested during a traffic stop in Poinsett County, authorities said.
According to Poinsett County Sheriff Kevin Molder, deputies were driving northbound on Interstate 555 Nov. 5 near Payneway when they initiated a traffic stop on a silver car near mile marker 18.
Deputies approached the driver, William Hatton, and his passenger, Tony Allen.
Former Memphis Grizzlies player Tony Allen and his companion, William Hatton (right) were arrested during a traffic stop in Poinsett County, authorities said.(Poinsett County Sheriff’s Office)
“During the contact, a deputy detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle, leading him to direct both individuals to exit the car,” the report said.
Deputies searched Allen and found a package of marijuana on him. The officers also found various drug paraphernalia containing marijuana, which Hatton confessed was his.
A search of the vehicle revealed a cigarette box in Allen’s passenger seat with a white powdery substance that later tested positive for cocaine.
Allen and Hatton are both charged with possession of meth or cocaine (less than 2 grams) and possession of marijuana (less than 4 ounces).
Hatton faces additional charges of possession of drug paraphernalia and improper lane change.
Both men were taken to the Poinsett County Detention Center.
Allen played for the Memphis Grizzlies from 2010 to 2017 and is a six-time member of the NBA All-Defensive Team. He is regarded as one of the best defenders in NBA history.
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