Breaking News
Eddie Johnson — a former NBA All-Star turned convicted child sexual predator — has died, officials confirm.
At the time of his death, the 65-year-old was serving a life sentence in Florida stemming from a 2006 sexual assault of an 8-year-old girl.
Johnson died on Oct. 26 after a battle with an undisclosed illness, but officials didn’t confirm his death until this week.
“Fast Eddie” was a solid player for the Atlanta Hawks from 1977 to 1986 — making two All-Star teams (1980, 1981). He also played for Cleveland and Seattle.
But, Johnson had major issues off the court … he was reportedly arrested more than 100 TIMES in his life for everything from cocaine possession to burglary and robbery … even assault on a police officer.
Johnson was banned from the NBA for LIFE in 1987 due to cocaine use … and things got worse from there.
Johnson was arrested in August 2006 after officials say he broke into an apartment complex and followed an 8-year-old girl to her room, where he forcibly committed sexual assault.
Johnson denied wrongdoing — but a jury found him guilty of sexual battery and molestation after less than 2 hours of deliberating.
He received a mandatory life sentence — and spent the rest of his days behind bars.
Johnson is survived by his 3 children and will be buried this Saturday in Florida.