Texas Judge Throws Out NBA Star James Harden's Misdemeanor Gun Charge

James Harden no longer faces a misdemeanor gun charge in Texas after a Harris County judge approved prosecutors' request to drop the case. Prosecutors told the court Harden had completed an alternative resolution agreement, and Harris County Criminal Court Judge Alex Salgado signed the order Thursday.

Houston police arrested Harden during a June 13 traffic stop after officers reported seeing a handgun in plain view inside his vehicle. Police said the firearm was not secured in a holster, leading to a misdemeanor charge of unlawfully carrying a weapon.

At the time of his arrest, Harden was taken into custody at 3:41 a.m., booked shortly before 5 a.m. and later released after posting a $100 bond. The Cleveland Cavaliers said they were aware of the arrest, were gathering additional information and remained in contact with Harden and his representatives.

Several weeks later, prosecutors asked the court to dismiss the charge after informing the judge that Harden had completed the agreement. The California Post first reported the filing before it was approved in Harris County Criminal Court.

Programs like the one Harden completed allow eligible defendants to avoid a criminal conviction by satisfying court-approved requirements. Prosecutors have not disclosed the terms of his agreement, though programs of this type can include community service.

Neither Harden nor his attorney had publicly commented on the ruling as of Friday. No statements had been issued by the Harris County District Attorney's Office or the Cleveland Cavaliers.

The 36-year-old guard recently completed his 17th NBA season, averaging 23.6 points in 70 regular-season games before Cleveland's playoff run ended in the Eastern Conference finals. Earlier this offseason, Harden declined his $42.3 million player option in hopes of negotiating a longer contract, and he has previously said he would like to remain with the Cavaliers, although no new agreement has been announced.

Under Texas law, the misdemeanor weapon charge filed against Harden carries a maximum penalty of up to one year in jail and a fine of as much as $4,000.