DETROIT, Michigan, Nov 23 (AFP) - Prosecutors expect to file charges against Indiana Pacers players and Detroit Pistons supporters in the wake of a brawl last Friday that led to record suspensions and at least nine people injured.
David Gorcyca, prosecutor for Oakland County, told reporters he expects assault and battery charges to filed no earlier than next week.
Those would be misdemeanors, although a felony assault and jail time is possible for the person who hurled a chair at the Pacers as the tried to leave the court during the melee.
A police officer and several others were struck by the chair, one saying he intends to file lawsuits over the incident.
The riot which broke out during the final seconds of a National Basketball Association game in nearby Auburn Hills was touched off when a 39-year-old man hurled a plastic cup that struck Pacers forward Ron Artest.
Artest, who was laying on the scorer's table, ran into the stands and began hitting a spectator. As more fans grabbed Artest and he was aided by teammates, the situation escalated and players punched fans as they ran onto the court.
Gorcyca identitfied the man who hurled the cup at Artest as a Pistons season ticket holder and former neighbor of the prosecutor, although no charges have been filed and the man denied responsibility.
11/24/2004 00:43 GMT - AFP