Shawn Kemp spared jail time at sentencing for 2023 shooting

Shawn Kemp, the former NBA All-Star, received a 30-day electronic home monitoring sentence for a shooting incident in March 2023 at a Tacoma mall. Prosecutors had sought a nine-month jail term after Kemp pleaded guilty to second-degree assault, reduced from first-degree assault. Judge Michael Schwartz highlighted the avoidable nature of the incident, stressing that "human life is not replaceable. " Following the sentencing, Kemp reflected on the incident, admitting frustration and acknowledging he could have made better choices. The confrontation began when Kemp attempted to retrieve his stolen cell phone from two men, Dajuan Jackson and Joshua Puente, who had a history of criminal behavior.

Kemp fired four rounds from a . 357 magnum revolver, claiming he heard shots from the suspects' vehicle, though prosecutors argued there was no evidence of return fire. Kemp's defense emphasized the suspects' criminal records and the context of the theft. The ruling underscores the legal consequences of taking personal action in theft situations and the importance of relying on law enforcement.