Recordings Could Exist Showing Reggie Bush Took Cash, Gifts

Bush’s Extortion Case Uncovers Existence Of Taped Conversations

A federal investigation into extortion claims against former New Era Sports & Entertainment investor LLOYD LAKE by Saints RB REGGIE BUSH and his family “has revealed the existence of taped conversations that could confirm Bush took cash and gifts while he was playing” at USC, according to Cole & Robinson of YAHOO SPORTS. A subpoena issued in the case reportedly shows at least one witness was asked to provide “any recordings in your possession of conversations” between Lake and Bush or Bush’s mother and stepfather (SPORTS.YAHOO.com, 1/24). In L.A., David Wharton cites a source saying that Lake “recorded the conversations he had with Bush and his stepfather.” Attorneys for New Era and the Bush family declined to comment (L.A. TIMES, 1/25). Cole, in an interview on Fox Radio, said, “I think USC is facing some severe punishment from the NCAA if they can prove this. ... I think it’s going to be problematic for the NCAA to ever really prove anything. Maybe if these tapes become public that would be a huge help. I just don't know if they're ever going to become public. There's all sorts of ways that they can remain confidential, including a settlement, but we'll see what happens" (Fox Radio, 1/24).