Mikey Williams, the San Ysidro High School basketball star who had recently been recruited by the University of Memphis, pleaded guilty on Thursday, November 30, in connection to a shooting incident outside his home in Jamul.
The plea was made during a court hearing in San Diego, where the 19-year-old admitted to a single count of making criminal threats, as confirmed by FOX 5.
Williams was initially arrested in April on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon following an altercation that occurred on the night of March 27. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department reported that the incident began as a verbal argument over guests being asked to leave a residence in Jamul. Five individuals, including three minors, left in a car when shots were allegedly fired at the vehicle. No one was injured, although the car was hit.
During the arrest, law enforcement officers carried out a search warrant at Williams’ residence and discovered he was in possession of one firearm. Williams was subsequently arrested on suspicion of five counts of assault with a deadly weapon.
Mikey Williams’ attorney, Randy Grossman, stated that his client had taken responsibility for his actions and expressed regret for the incident. Grossman emphasized that Williams viewed the altercation as a threat and responded inappropriately, but assured that Williams had learned from the experience and would not repeat such actions in the future.
“He was an 18-year-old kid, he felt threatened, and he responded in an inappropriate manner,” he stated.
He also mentioned that Williams, who has been studying online and covering the costs himself, hopes to return to campus at the University of Memphis and continue playing basketball.
The final decision regarding Williams’ status at the university and any potential impact on his endorsements is yet to be determined.
If convicted on the charges he faced, Williams could have faced significant prison time.
“Cases are individually looked at. There is no rubber stamp for any set type of case. Going through the details of Mr. Williams’ age, lack of criminal record, everything that took place that night, both sides got together, worked really hard and came up with a resolution that we both believe creates justice for Mr. Williams, the community,” Deputy District Attorney George Modlie said.