New Mexico
Ex-NMSU basketball player’s hazing trial delayed again
LAS CRUCES, N.M. (KRQE) – The trial of a former NMSU basketball player accused of hazing and sexually assaulting a former teammate has been delayed once again. The allegations came to light in 2023, with charges being filed against Deshawndre Washington and two other players, Kim Aiken Jr. and Doctor Bradley.
Both of them took plea deals on their cases, agreeing to testify against Washington. Washington’s trial was delayed in April, with his defense saying they needed more time as the attorney representing Washington was also trying a homicide case at the time.
Now, the defense argues that Washington’s right to a chosen counsel has been violated, as Michael Cain was forced to remain as his attorney despite attempting to withdraw five times. Washington’s defense argues Cain was hired only to be local counsel, with attorney David Mestemaker being his lead counsel from out of state.
Washington’s trial was set to start Monday. The state Supreme Court has ruled that the Las Cruces District Court has until the end of the month to respond.