Federal prosecutors have accused Deniro Laster, a co-defendant in the NBA gambling case involving Terry Rozier, of witness tampering. In a court filing, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York stated that Laster has "repeatedly and flagrantly violated the conditions of his release," including allegedly posting rat emojis on Instagram and attempting to contact co-defendants.

Prosecutors are seeking to revoke Laster's bond, arguing that his actions, coupled with his reputation for carrying a gun, indicate an intent to intimidate witnesses. Laster is alleged to have played a key role by selling information about Rozier planning to leave a March 2023 game early to fellow sports bettors for fraudulent wagers. A bribe of approximately $70,000 was allegedly agreed upon.

Rozier's attorneys have sought to use a text from Laster as evidence of Rozier's unawareness, but prosecutors claim the exchange is unrelated to sports gambling. Both Rozier and Laster face charges including conspiracy to commit money laundering and wire fraud, with a trial scheduled for Feb. 8, 2027. Both have pleaded not guilty.