Bryant accused

last updated 8 January 2015

Edwards, Colo.

Kobe Bryant, one of the most revered stars in professional basketball, turned himself in to authorities this week after a woman accused him of sexually assaulting her at a Colorado hotel. No charges were immediately filed, and Bryant was released on $25,000 bail. Bryant, 24, who had been in the area for knee surgery, told a teammate the accusation was “bogus.” His team, the Los Angeles Lakers, stood by him. An executive called the allegations “completely out of character.” Bryant and his wife of two years had their first baby in January, and his squeaky clean image has earned him millions in endorsements. Prosecutors said none of that would matter if they found enough evidence to press charges. “The same standards apply to Mr. Bryant as apply in every other sex assault case,” one said.