LOS ANGELES: Los Angeles Lakers back-up forward Derrick Caracter, 22, was arrested and jailed on early Sunday after he hit a pregnant International House of Pancakes (IHOP) employee. Police said the young player was drunk at the time. This occurred on Canal Street in New Orleans. According to the police report, the 6-foot-9 forward, who was in the city as part of the Lakers' playoff series, was drunk and acting disorderly inside the restaurant. Witnesses said he “started grabbing and pulling” the pregnant worker, which led to the manager of the IHOP to flag down a police officer. When the officer arrived on the scene, she attempted to defuse what was going on, but Caracter did not quiet down and was then arrested. IHOP did not comment on the situation, which occurred near the Lakers hotel in the city. Caracter was reportedly released from custody. It is the most recent in a line of professional athletes to be caught in violent acts against women. One LA-based women's rights activist, who works closely with professional athletes, said that this action is part of why there is a need to have an open discussion on the role they play in American society. “We have seen too many athletes believe they can do whatever they want and get away with it,” said the psychologist, who asked not to be named. “Likely, nothing will happen to Caracter, but we must strive to make these people accountable for their actions just as we would for any other individual.” BM
