American basketball player arrested in Indonesia could face death penalty for cannabis candy: report

Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

Jarred Shaw, a 34-year-old basketball player in the Indonesian Basketball League, was arrested after allegedly attempting to smuggle illegal drugs into the country, police said Thursday.

Indonesia's strict drug laws have Shaw potentially facing a life sentence and even the death penalty if he's found guilty. Convicted smugglers have been executed by firing squad in the past. 

Ronald Sipayung, police chief at Soekarno-Hatta Airport, said authorities raided Shaw's apartment just outside the country's capital of Jakarta, where they seized 132 pieces of cannabis candy. 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Utah State Aggies center Jarred Shaw (5) backs up against Wyoming Cowboys guard Jerron Granberry (15) during the first half at Arena-Auditorium.  (Troy Babbitt/USA Today Sports)

A tip came from airport customs saying Shaw received a "suspicious airway package from Thailand." While cannabis has been decriminalized in Thailand, it remains illegal in Indonesia

Shaw told police he wanted to share the candy with his teammates, Sipayung said. 

FORMER NEW MEXICO COLLEGE FOOTBALL PLAYER FACES POSSIBLE LIFE IN PRISON AFTER DRUG TRAFFICKING CONVICTION

"We are still running the investigation to uncover the international drugs network behind this case and to stop its distribution," Sipayung added. 

Shaw was present during a news conference Wednesday on the matter wearing an orange T-shirt and mask with his hands tied. 

He has played for several Indonesian Basketball League teams, including the Tangerang Hawks, the team he signed a contract with last year. Shaw has been playing in the league since 2022. 

Utah State Aggies center