Donaghy's sentencing postponed; ex-ref forfeits $30,000

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Former NBA referee Tim Donaghy's sentencing on two felony charges in a basketball gambling scam has been posted until late January, according to a report.

Donaghy, who admitted to betting on games he officiated, was set to be sentenced Nov. 9 but his fate now will be determined on Jan. 25 before Judge Carol B. Amon, the Philadelphia Daily News reported on Wednesday, citing sealed court documents filed last week in Brooklyn (N.Y.) Federal Court.

The 40-year-old veteran official pleaded guilty to the felonies -- conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to transmit gambling information across state lines -- for taking cash payoffs from gamblers and betting on games he officiated. He has been free on $250,000 bond.

In a letter to NBA commissioner David Stern, Donaghy resigned on July 9.

According to a report Tuesday, Donaghy forfeited $30,000 in restitution to the government under his plea deal. He made the payment last month, according to court records. Robert Nardoza, a spokesman for the U.S. Attorney's Office in Brooklyn which is prosecuting the case, confirmed the payment.

Court papers say Donaghy started placing bets on NBA games in 2003. He then gave gamblers inside information, including tips on which crews would officiate games and how the various officials and players interacted.

Donaghy faces a maximum of 25 years in prison for conspiracy to engage in wire fraud and transmitting betting information through interstate commerce. He also must pay a $500,000 fine in addition to the restitution already paid.

Donaghy is in the process of divorcing his wife, Kimberly, who wants possession of their six-bedroom, $1.35 million home on a golf course in Bradenton, Fla., the Daily News reported.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.

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