Keith Appling, a former National Basketball Association (NBA) player, pleaded guilty to second degree murder and a firearm charge on Monday, February 13th, in connection to a fatal shooting that occurred in Detroit in 2021. The former Orlando Magic player pled guilty to one count each of second-degree murder and weapons felony firearm possession in a Michigan court, and the plea deal was announced just as his trial was set to begin. Appling had been charged in 2021 for the murder of 66-year-old Clyde Edmonds, whom Appling was related to.
Background on the Case
On May 22nd, 2021, police officers were called to a house in Detroit due to a reported shooting. They found Edmonds on the front lawn with multiple gunshot wounds, and he was taken to the hospital where he was later pronounced dead. Prosecutors said that Appling had an argument with Edmonds over a handgun, after which Appling shot Edmonds multiple times before fleeing the scene. Appling’s girlfriend, Natalie Bannister, drove Appling away from the crime scene and failed to tell the truth to officers investigating the case.
In 2022, Bannister pleaded guilty to lying to a peace officer and was sentenced to 18 months’ probation.
Prosecution of Appling
In 2021, Appling was charged with murder, assault with intent to murder, and two counts of felony firearm possession. The case was delayed multiple times due to issues arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, on Monday, February 13th, 2023, Appling pleaded guilty to second degree murder and a firearm charge.
As part of the plea deal, Appling agreed to a sentence of 18 to 40 years in the Michigan Department of Corrections and two years consecutive sentencing for the felony firearm possession. He will be sentenced by a Michigan judge on March 3rd, 2023.
The prosecutor in the case, Kym Worthy, expressed her disappointment in Appling’s actions: “It is always tragic when one with so much promise, talent, and possibility is alleged to have committed the most serious of crimes,” she said.
Appling’s Basketball Career
Before his legal troubles, Appling had a successful basketball career. He played college basketball at Michigan State University, where he was a standout player. He was a two-time All-Big Ten selection and finished his career as the school’s all-time leader in assists among guards. Appling had a productive few years with the Michigan State Spartans, finishing among the college’s career leaders in starts, games played, free throws made, three-pointers attempted, and points.
Appling was later signed by the Orlando Magic in 2016, and also played in the NBA’s developmental league, the G League, as well as playing for professional teams in Mexico and the Dominican Republic.
The Aftermath of Appling’s Guilty Plea
The guilty plea marks the end of a tragic saga for Appling, who had once been a promising athlete. It is a reminder of the consequences of violence, and how it can derail even the most promising careers. The case also highlights the need for intervention and support for individuals who may be struggling with addiction or mental health issues, to prevent them from spiraling out of control and causing harm to themselves or others.
Keith Appling’s guilty plea to second degree murder and a firearm charge has sent shockwaves through the basketball community and beyond. It is a tragic reminder of the consequences of violence, and how it can destroy even the most promising of careers.
