Ex-Bull ordered to give DNA sample in massage therapist sex assault case
A Lake County judge authorized police to take a DNA sample from a former Chicago Bulls player and coach accused of trying to sexually assault a massage therapist in April.
Assistant State's Attorney Jason Grindel said Tuesday that the DNA sample will be taken later this month by police at a mutually beneficial location to Eric “Rick” Brunson, and his defense attorney, Stephen Simonian.
Also on Tuesday, Judge James K. Booras granted a request from Simonian and co-defense attorney Dennis Berkson to delay Brunson's trial until Dec. 8 to allow more time to investigate the case.
Court documents say Brunson, 37, of Vernon Hills, placed his mouth on the breast of an unidentified massage therapist and tried to force her to perform oral sex on him during the April 2 attack in a massage room at Lifetime Fitness in Vernon Hills.
Brunson faces counts of attempted criminal sexual assault, criminal sexual abuse, aggravated battery and domestic battery. He is free from jail after posting the required 10 percent of his $50,000 bail.
Brunson, who coached and played under the name Rick Brunson, could be sentenced to 3 to 7 years in prison if found guilty on the most serious charge.
A previous judge has ordered Brunson is to have no contact with the victim or the fitness center.
According to NBA.com, Brunson played for seven teams in nine years, including two stints with the Bulls — once during the 2002-03 season, and a second time during the 2003-04 season.
He also served as an assistant coach with the Bulls, Denver Nuggets and Charlotte Bobcats.
Brunson is due back in court Nov. 25 for a case management hearing.