The Newport Beach (California) Police Department was ‘unable to corroborate any criminal activity related to’ social media posts that alleged Oklahoma City Thunder guard Josh Giddey may have had an improper relationship with a minor.
“After a thorough and exhaustive examination, we have completed our investigation into information that was circulating on social media involving Josh Giddey,’ the Newport Beach Police Department said in a news release Wednesday. ‘Our detectives have reviewed all of the available information and were unable to corroborate any criminal activity related to Mr. Giddey. The Newport Beach Police Department is committed to ensuring that accurate information is disseminated to the public, while also ensuring the rights of all those involved.’
Giddey has been under scrutiny since Thanksgiving when an anonymous user on social media posted photos and video of a man who appeared to be Giddey with a female who may have been under 18 years old. The social media posts were deleted by the original poster but other users saved the images.
On Nov. 24, the NBA acknowledged it was looking into the allegations after a post on social media just before Thanksgiving showed Giddey with the female in photos and video.
On Nov. 29, the Newport Beach Police Department said it “is aware of information being circulated online involving an alleged relationship between professional basketball player Josh Giddey and a female minor. The Newport Beach Police Department is actively seeking additional information related to these allegations and pursuing all leads and evidence to obtain the facts of the case.”
Giddey averages 11.8 points, 6.1 rebounds and 4.6 assists and is a valuable starter for the 27-13 Thunder, who are in second place in the Western Conference.
Follow NBA reporter Jeff Zillgitt on social media @JeffZillgitt
