Prosecutors Seek Custody for Terry Rozier Co-Defendant

Federal prosecutors have asked a judge to revoke the bond of Deniro Laster, a co-defendant in the gambling case involving former NBA player Terry Rozier, alleging that he violated the conditions of his release and attempted to intimidate witnesses connected to the case.

The request was filed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, which claims Laster repeatedly breached court-imposed restrictions while awaiting trial. Prosecutors argue that his conduct has jeopardized the integrity of the proceedings and warrants detention until the case is resolved.

According to court filings, Laster allegedly contacted fellow defendants despite restrictions preventing such communication. Prosecutors also contend that he used social media activity to target individuals they view as potential witnesses.

Prosecutors Cite Social Media Activity and Contact Attempts

The government’s filing states that Laster made direct and indirect efforts to communicate with co-defendants, actions prosecutors say violate the terms of his release. Investigators also pointed to Instagram activity involving accounts associated with Laster.

Prosecutors alleged that rat emojis were posted on at least two occasions in a manner they believe was intended to send a message to perceived witnesses. The filing further references Laster’s alleged reputation for owning firearms and regularly carrying a gun, arguing that these circumstances heightened concerns about potential intimidation.

In their submission to the court, prosecutors wrote: “Revocation of Deniro Laster’s bail is the only means of ensuring that he will comply with the Court’s orders, refrain from further criminal conduct, preserve the integrity of these proceedings, and protect witnesses or perceived witnesses.”

A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office was contacted by ESPN but declined to provide additional comment. A status conference involving all defendants in the case is scheduled to take place on Tuesday.

Allegations Center on March 2023 NBA Game

While Rozier remains the highest-profile figure in the case, prosecutors describe Laster as an important participant in the alleged scheme.

Authorities claim Rozier informed Laster ahead of a March 2023 game between the Charlotte Hornets and the New Orleans Pelicans that he intended to leave the contest early. Prosecutors allege Laster then shared that information with sports bettors, allowing wagers to be placed based on advance knowledge of Rozier’s expected performance.

The broader indictment alleges that Laster acted as an intermediary between Rozier and sports bettor Marves Fairley. Prosecutors say Fairley paid $100,000 as part of a plan to manipulate betting outcomes linked to Rozier’s player statistics.

According to the allegations, bettors used the information to place more than $250,000 in wagers on Rozier’s player prop unders. During the game in question, Rozier recorded five points, two assists and one made three-pointer before exiting early. Prosecutors say those results caused three of the four betting categories targeted by the group to finish below the projected totals.

The government also alleges that Laster collected approximately $70,000 in bribe proceeds from Fairley in Philadelphia before traveling to Rozier’s residence, where the money was counted.

Defense Challenges Government’s Interpretation

Court filings submitted by Rozier’s legal team have sought to undermine portions of the government’s case. His attorneys recently cited a text message sent by Laster that read: “Dont tell chum bout the bet.” The filing identified “Chum” as Rozier’s nickname and argued the message supported the position that Rozier lacked knowledge of the alleged wagering arrangement.

Federal prosecutors disputed that interpretation, stating they possess evidence indicating the text exchange “does not relate to sports gambling.”

Rozier and Laster were arrested in October 2025 following an FBI investigation into what authorities describe as a larger gambling operation. Both men face charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. Rozier also faces a bribery allegation.

Each defendant has entered a not guilty plea. Their trial is currently scheduled to begin on February 8, 2027.

The Rozier matter forms part of a wider federal investigation that also charged several additional individuals. Among them is Shane Hennen, who has separately been charged in connection with an illegal poker game case.

Rozier’s attorneys have also requested dismissal of the charges against him and sought modifications to his bond conditions, arguing that restrictions on contact with NBA teams have affected his employment opportunities. Following his arrest, Rozier was placed on leave and was later waived by the Miami Heat at the conclusion of the regular season in April.