‘I am not sexually abusive’: Former Portland Trail Blazer Ben McLemore responds to rape charges

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — After being arrested and charged with multiple sex crimes on Tuesday, former Portland Trail Blazer player Ben McLemore released a statement Thursday claiming that he “did not rape this woman.”

Former Portland Trail Blazer Ben McLemore arrested, accused of rape

According to court documents, an outstanding warrant was served for McLemore’s arrest Tuesday and he appeared in a Clackamas County court Wednesday.

McLemore’s full statement can be viewed below.

“The charges I was handed in court yesterday appear to allege that in 2021 I had sex with a woman who was too intoxicated to consent. I am not accused of using physical force to rape someone. Rather, I am accused of engaging in sexual activity with someone who now claims she did not consent. I did not rape this woman. I am not sexually abusive. I have never pursued a sexual relationship when I understood the woman was not interested in me and acting willingly. The allegation dates back to October of 2021, during a time I played in Portland.

“It will take some time for us to uncover the facts. At this time, the prosecution has not provided my attorneys with any reports or evidence. My attorneys and I cooperated fully with the investigation. I met every request they made of me, immediately and professionally. I indicated that I was interested in testifying in the grand jury but was refused that opportunity. When my attorneys were informed of the charges, we immediately made plans for me to return to the United States for the first court appearance – and informed all law enforcement authorities and the Court of my travel plan. I could not have done more to assist in the process. The truth will come to light. I am confident we will prevail, and my name will be cleared. Thank you all for your support. I appreciate all of you and am confident this will turn out as it should.”

The four felony charges, all stemming from an incident on October 3, 2021, include first-degree rape, first-degree unlawful sexual penetration, and two counts of second-degree sexual abuse, court documents said.

McLemore played for the Blazers during the 2021-22 season, averaging just over 10 points per game.

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