Overview
- A Harris County judge signed a prosecutors’ motion Thursday to dismiss the misdemeanor unlawful-carrying charge against James Harden after he completed an alternative resolution agreement.
- The case stems from a June 13 traffic stop in Houston when an officer saw an unholstered handgun in the cup holder of Harden’s car, leading to his arrest, booking and release on a $100 bond.
- Harris County’s alternative resolution programs let defendants avoid a criminal conviction by meeting conditions such as community service or treatment, but court records do not disclose the specific terms of Harden’s agreement.
- Harden has not publicly commented on the matter and his legal team gave limited comment, while the Cleveland Cavaliers said earlier they were aware of the arrest and in contact with his representatives.
- With the charge dismissed, Harden no longer faces a criminal-record risk and the development lowers the likelihood of NBA discipline, clearing a legal obstacle as he pursues a multi-year free-agent contract.