Ty Lawson, a point guard at North Carolina, was arrested in Chapel Hill early yesterday for a driving offense that involved alcohol.
Lawson was stopped by Chapel Hill police at 2:33 a.m. on North Columbia Street, according to the arrest report. Officers were concerned about loud music coming from Lawson's vehicle but determined that he had been drinking.
Lawson, 20, was charged with driving after drinking. He was not charged with DWI. He was charged also with a noise ordinance violation and for driving with a suspended or revoked license.
Lawson posted no bail. He was released after signing for the police a written promise. He was driving a 2005 Chevrolet 4-door vehicle with Maryland plates. He lives in Clinton, Md.
Neither Lawson nor Coach Roy Williams of UNC could be reached for comment. Steve Kirschner, UNC's sports-information director, said that Lawson and Williams would say nothing until Lawson's legal process is over.
Lawson has a July 8 trial date in district criminal court in Chapel Hill.
Lawson was back in Chapel Hill after participating in NBA evaluation camps. He filed for early entry into the league's draft.
What is unclear is how NBA personnel will judge Lawson's arrest: will they consider it a youthful transgression or a sign of a more serious problem? The arrest could affect his draft status.
Lawson has said that he would like to be among the top 20 picks. He is not considered a lottery pick among the first 14 selections.
■ Bill Cole can be reached at bcole@wsjournal.com.
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