Tide Hoopster's Mom Accused of Kidnapping

A strange story came out of the state of Alabama yesterday. Alabama basketball player Devonta Pollard's mom was allegedly involved in the kidnapping of a young girl in Mississippi.

Jesse Mae Pollard appeared in US District Court on Thu 2 May, charged with kidnapping six-year-old Jashayla Markiaya Hopson of Kemper, Mississippi.

An Amber Alert was issued for the young girl on Wed 1 May, but she was found the same day not too far from her home.

Pollard reportedly had a dispute with the child's mother, which lead to her kidnapping the child from her school. She apparently threatened the victim's mother via text, saying that if she called the police, she'd never see the child again.

Coming out of high school, Devonta Pollard was named as a McDonald's All-American and was considered one of the best high school players in the country. As a freshman for the Tide, he contributed quite a bit last season and head coach Anthony Grant was expecting big things from him next year. Still is.

Neither Devonta nor the University of Alabama have released a statement regarding this incident. As Mrs Pollard is not directly affiliated with the university, it's doubtful one will be forthcoming.

If found guilty, Mrs Pollard could face up to 20 years in prison or, if exteme circumstances arise through the proceedings, a life sentence.