On Bush
There's a lot of focus on the Reggie Bush investigation right now. But what does it mean? The existence of tapes does not necessarily hurt USC because the university could challenge the veracity of them if the NCAA used it to punish the football program. Not to mention that taping conversations like that is illegal.
Even if the tapes are correct, without USC's knowledge or complicity, it would be hard to hold the university liable. That doesn't mean USC is off the hook regarding the chance of getting stripped of a national championship, but we're referring more to probation for the program.
Reggie Bush and his family are pieces of sheet!! Not to mention incredibly stupid. They can all FO!!
Reggie should be wished into the OJ Simpson field immediately by Pres. Sample and AD Garrett.
Thank you for being the one reporter who indicated that it is illegal under California law to make recordings like this. Frankly, I would think that reporters have to be especially sensitive to this.
I do not think that Lake can use any tapes that exist in a California court proceeding. That won't stop the FBI from being able to use the tapes in Federal court, though.
KRT
USC_89:
I am NOT here to defend NOR blast OJS murder case. That is a sensitive subject. I will defend however OJS while he represented USC. USC was resposible for OJS while he was wearing a USC uniform. Once he left USC OJS is responsible for OJS NOT USC.
Do us a favor the foul language does NOT enhance your post therefore watch your mouth.
Thank you
If USC has to have titles stripped and pay back money, they should consider suing Bush and/or the Griffins for their actions detrimental to the university. I can't believe people would be so selfish as to start taking money from agents when they will be set for life only a few months later. Anyway, its not like USC benefited by Bush getting paid. He was already there and was already leaving at the end of the season.
Oh. In case anybody from the other side of town decides to chime in....(ReelBruin)...two words....Sam Gilbert!
I'm not a lawyer, but can't Reggie just pay back Lake what he is due and get him to sign a non-disclosure? Subsequently, if the Bush family doesn't cooperate with the investigation, doesn't that mean it's over? Then the NCAA doesn't have a case and SC can welcome Reggie back into the family.
There's got to be some $value at which Bush needs to make this go away, otherwise, he really is STOOPID.
Scott's comment about tape recording being illegal in Calif. is partly correct. Phone conversation recordings are largely illegal unless all parties give prior consent to allow the taping. In person conversation can be taped without prior consent and are legally admissable in court; however, without some sort of voice authentication or other evidence to substantiate the validity of the recordings, they are considered "hearsay" evidence so they would not be definitive proof on their own without overwhelming supporting evidence.
Scott's comment about tape recording being illegal in Calif. is partly correct. Phone conversation recordings are largely illegal unless all parties give prior consent to allow the taping. In person conversation can be taped without prior consent and are legally admissable in court; however, without some sort of voice authentication or other evidence to substantiate the validity of the recordings, they are considered "hearsay" evidence so they would not be definitive proof on their own without overwhelming supporting evidence.
Scott's comment about tape recording being illegal in Calif. is partly correct. Phone conversation recordings are largely illegal unless all parties give prior consent to allow the taping. In person conversation can be taped without prior consent and are legally admissable in court; however, without some sort of voice authentication or other evidence to substantiate the validity of the recordings, they are considered "hearsay" evidence so they would not be definitive proof on their own without overwhelming supporting evidence.
Just goes to show you the arrogance and selfishness of Reggie and his family. They obviously think the rules don't apply to them. They couldn't have waited one more year to cash in? Did they really think they could take cash and benefits from these thugs and that it wouldn't come back to bite them? To top it off, the family was widely portrayed and celebrated as a hard working, religious and upright success story - and here we find out they sold out for a few months of free rent and cash. Simply pathetic.
Well said, nels.
Family's arrogance is astounding.
The worse thing for Bush and his family is that this whole incident is now part of a U.S. Federal Investigation. A grand jury is hearing evidence. And this whole investigation was STARTED BY THE BUSH FAMILY claiming extortion. As part of this investigation the Bush family and Reggie Bush have spoken to Federal Investigators. And Reggie's stepfather has already acknowledged that he is aware that there are tapes. So when Reggie Bush is called to give his version to the Grand Jury. He will have to tell the truth or possibly face perjury or obstruction of justice charges -- just like Barry Bonds. If Bush tells the truth he could put SC in trouble since he is going to have to acknowledge violating NCAA rules. If he doesn't tell the truth the tapes could prove that he is lying to the Grand Jury. THE BUSH FAMILY SHOULD HAVE JUST LET THIS THING GO. As far as SC being off the hook, let me just say two words -- MIKE ORNSTEIN. Pete Carroll and Mike Garrett were the ones who allowed Mike Ornstein to roam the sidelines. With Ornstein's history (if you don't know it -- it is interesting) why would they ever allow him to become so connected to the SC program that he was allowed to employ SC players during the off-season and be on the sidelines. Finally I also feel there should be concern about a cumulative effect -- 1) the Bush Case (and don't forget the one thing that the SC people should have been aware of -- Reggie's car), 2) Ornstein, 3) Agents supposedly allowed free reign at Heritage Hall, 4) Bob Leinart paying Jarrett's rent, 5)the repeated gatherings at Papadakis' restaurant in San Pedro. Some of these by themselves would be nothing -- but put together the NCAA (IF IT WANTS) might have a strong case against SC.
Why is Yahoo Sports timing always at a critical time? First in was before the Rose Bowl, now is comes just days before the preps have to sign their letter of intent. Could it be Yahoo Sports has a bias and are trying to sway the preps into thinking possible NCAA sanctions against USC (such as NO Bowl Games)and have them sign elsewhere. Where did the Editors of Yahoo Sports go to college? I'm not saying that Bush is not at fault, I will wait for the findings, I just think the timing of the report is dubious.
The worse thing for Bush and his family is that this whole incident is now part of a U.S. Federal Investigation. A grand jury is hearing evidence. And this whole investigation was STARTED BY THE BUSH FAMILY claiming extortion. As part of this investigation the Bush family and Reggie Bush have spoken to Federal Investigators. And Reggie's stepfather has already acknowledged that he is aware that there are tapes. So when Reggie Bush is called to give his version to the Grand Jury. He will have to tell the truth or possibly face perjury or obstruction of justice charges -- just like Barry Bonds. If Bush tells the truth he could put SC in trouble since he is going to have to acknowledge violating NCAA rules. If he doesn't tell the truth the tapes could prove that he is lying to the Grand Jury. THE BUSH FAMILY SHOULD HAVE JUST LET THIS THING GO. As far as SC being off the hook, let me just say two words -- MIKE ORNSTEIN. Pete Carroll and Mike Garrett were the ones who allowed Mike Ornstein to roam the sidelines. With Ornstein's history (if you don't know it -- it is interesting) why would they ever allow him to become so connected to the SC program that he was allowed to employ SC players during the off-season and be on the sidelines. Finally I also feel there should be concern about a cumulative effect -- 1) the Bush Case (and don't forget the one thing that the SC people should have been aware of -- Reggie's car), 2) Ornstein, 3) Agents supposedly allowed free reign at Heritage Hall, 4) Bob Leinart paying Jarrett's rent, 5)the repeated gatherings at Papadakis' restaurant in San Pedro. Some of these by themselves would be nothing -- but put together the NCAA (IF IT WANTS) might have a strong case against SC.
Wolfie... WTG with the blasts with Petros this afternoon. "Coach Lunchmoney". ROFL!!! Thank you too for being the voice of reason thru Bushgate.
The worse thing for Bush and his family is that this whole incident is now part of a U.S. Federal Investigation. A grand jury is hearing evidence. And this whole investigation was STARTED BY THE BUSH FAMILY claiming extortion. As part of this investigation the Bush family and Reggie Bush have spoken to Federal Investigators. And Reggie's stepfather has already acknowledged that he is aware that there are tapes. So when Reggie Bush is called to give his version to the Grand Jury. He will have to tell the truth or possibly face perjury or obstruction of justice charges -- just like Barry Bonds. If Bush tells the truth he could put SC in trouble since he is going to have to acknowledge violating NCAA rules. If he doesn't tell the truth the tapes could prove that he is lying to the Grand Jury. THE BUSH FAMILY SHOULD HAVE JUST LET THIS THING GO. As far as SC being off the hook, let me just say two words -- MIKE ORNSTEIN. Pete Carroll and Mike Garrett were the ones who allowed Mike Ornstein to roam the sidelines. With Ornstein's history (if you don't know it -- it is interesting) why would they ever allow him to become so connected to the SC program that he was allowed to employ SC players during the off-season and be on the sidelines. Finally I also feel there should be concern about a cumulative effect -- 1) the Bush Case (and don't forget the one thing that the SC people should have been aware of -- Reggie's car), 2) Ornstein, 3) Agents supposedly allowed free reign at Heritage Hall, 4) Bob Leinart paying Jarrett's rent, 5)the repeated gatherings at Papadakis' restaurant in San Pedro. Some of these by themselves would be nothing -- but put together the NCAA (IF IT WANTS) might have a strong case against SC.
Looks like ReelBruin got a new posting name. "Follow the Money" sounds a lot like our fury little friend from across the city. And kick back on the quad posting bro.
Now about this whole Bush mess. I understand that yahoo.com is reporting that there may or may not be someone who might have possession of some alleged tapes that could possibly have a chance of maybe implicating someone who may or may not be connected to the Bush family in some, unknown capacity. I mean seriously, read the language of the report. It does not state "I have heard tapes consisting of Reggie Bush accepting money from a potential agent." There are always a lot of "may"s and "could"s and "possibly"s. The tapes might do this or may do that. And I still stand by my previous question of "what are the other news agencies doing out there?" How does SI, ESPN, Sporting News, et al get out hustled by some two-bit online service? I am very skeptical of anything that an online search site is this far out in front of everyone on. Seriously. Was yahoo breaking the Valerie Plame case or was that the NY Times. Was yahoo the information news source of choice during Katrina, or did people just use yahoo to find stories on CNN, Fox, ABC, NBC, AP, Rueters, etc. Yahoo is a middle man, not a news organization and it seems impossible to me that if this were a real story, that they would be scooping everyone else.
Whatever. My hunch is that the Griffins hooked up with a nice house for a few months and promised to pay the guy back when their son made it big time. Reggie probably finds out that his parents swung a deal but refused to kick his mom out on the street and just hoped that the whole thing would go away. I can't applaud Reggie for doing what he did, but who's going to kick their own mother (even if he could, I mean what authority does he have over mom) out of the house she's living in. Not gonna happen.
If Reggie took cash, straight from the agent. He needs to face the consequences, but I don't believe he did.
Sorry to disappoint you sureshot, but I was just watching this thread. You all hit this one on the head - Bush claimed extortion to defend his name and failed to realize it might prompt an ACTUAL investigation with subpoenas, grand juries, and lots of fun things that compel testimony.
Best case for you guys is possibly vacated records. And believe it or not, I'm not celebrating this because his talent is without question, and I don't see any Trojans defending him or claiming he was anything other than selfish.
What's amazing is that with a payday like he got, why the hell not just pay off those criminals he got in bed with? But, it is what it is, and if he did what it looks like he did, it's gonna hurt and stripping you guys is the right thing to do, unfortunately.
PH55 - Sam Gilbert? Are you kidding? You are digging up 30 year old unsubstantiated crap to defend Reggie? Please, take some meds or something. Gilbert was a hanger-on, not a welcome companion. And furthermore, at the time, it was not illegal to have kids over for dinner. I can't even believe I gave that the time of day.
Scott,
You are getting some bad legal advice.
Ilegality is not an issue except for the civil suit.
If taped without permission or knowledge it will not be admissable.
However, since law enforcement was not involved in taping, they can use it any criminal charges, i.e. extortion, obstruction of justice, etc. NCAA is not court of law and can use it anywhere they see fit.
This is a keystone cops affair. Bush family playing extortion card when threat was releasing tape has to go down as one of great legal blunders. As stupid as Lamar is, fact is his lawyer should no better. He was not qualified for this job. There was really only one scenario to play.
Given these guys were hoods extortion is possible, but more likely Bush family was told if it did not settle it would have to face these tapes being used in trial and thus made public. That is a statement of fact, not extortion. Another fact is that tapes would not get in at civil trial if made without permission/knowledge of other parties.
Each step has made it worse. Family needs newlawyer although multiple mistakes may have made it too late.
Scott,
You are getting some bad legal advice.
Ilegality is not an issue except for the civil suit.
If taped without permission or knowledge it will not be admissable.
However, since law enforcement was not involved in taping, they can use it any criminal charges, i.e. extortion, obstruction of justice, etc. NCAA is not court of law and can use it anywhere they see fit.
This is a keystone cops affair. Bush family playing extortion card when threat was releasing tape has to go down as one of great legal blunders. As stupid as Lamar is, fact is his lawyer should no better. He was not qualified for this job. There was really only one scenario to play.
Given these guys were hoods extortion is possible, but more likely Bush family was told if it did not settle it would have to face these tapes being used in trial and thus made public. That is a statement of fact, not extortion. Another fact is that tapes would not get in at civil trial if made without permission/knowledge of other parties.
Each step has made it worse. Family needs newlawyer although multiple mistakes may have made it too late.
Scott,
You are getting some bad legal advice.
Ilegality is not an issue except for the civil suit.
If taped without permission or knowledge it will not be admissable.
However, since law enforcement was not involved in taping, they can use it any criminal charges, i.e. extortion, obstruction of justice, etc. NCAA is not court of law and can use it anywhere they see fit.
This is a keystone cops affair. Bush family playing extortion card when threat was releasing tape has to go down as one of great legal blunders. As stupid as Lamar is, fact is his lawyer should no better. He was not qualified for this job. There was really only one scenario to play.
Given these guys were hoods extortion is possible, but more likely Bush family was told if it did not settle it would have to face these tapes being used in trial and thus made public. That is a statement of fact, not extortion. Another fact is that tapes would not get in at civil trial if made without permission/knowledge of other parties.
Each step has made it worse. Family needs newlawyer although multiple mistakes may have made it too late.
Scott,
You are getting some bad legal advice.
Ilegality is not an issue except for the civil suit.
If taped without permission or knowledge it will not be admissable.
However, since law enforcement was not involved in taping, they can use it any criminal charges, i.e. extortion, obstruction of justice, etc. NCAA is not court of law and can use it anywhere they see fit.
This is a keystone cops affair. Bush family playing extortion card when threat was releasing tape has to go down as one of great legal blunders. As stupid as Lamar is, fact is his lawyer should no better. He was not qualified for this job. There was really only one scenario to play.
Given these guys were hoods extortion is possible, but more likely Bush family was told if it did not settle it would have to face these tapes being used in trial and thus made public. That is a statement of fact, not extortion. Another fact is that tapes would not get in at civil trial if made without permission/knowledge of other parties.
Each step has made it worse. Family needs newlawyer although multiple mistakes may have made it too late.