Pennsylvania Family Law Blog – The Law Offices of Sheryl R. Rentz

Wife of NBA Referee Charged in Betting Scandal Seeks Protective Order

By Sheryl Rentz on June 3, 2008

This is an example of a dramatic divorce proceeding that has escalated into a domestic violence case. Kimberly L. Donaghy, wife of the former NBA referee charged in a betting scandal Tim Donaghy, has filed for a restraining order against her husband, who she said verbally and physically abused their children. Donaghy revealed in court papers that her husband threatened to hit her and abused their four children. The Donaghy’s, who are going through a divorce, had been married since 1995.

“I am scared for myself and my children.” Kimberly Donaghy wrote in court papers. “He is going to snap.”

Tim Donaghy, 41 was the centerpiece of a betting scandal that rocked the NBA last year when it was revealed that he provided betting picks to gambling associates based on information he was privy to because of his position as an NBA referee. It was also revealed at that time that Donaghy was an avid gambler himself and authorities allege he bet on games that he officiated. Donaghy plead guilty to charges he conspired to engage in wire fraud and transmitted betting information through interstate commerce. He faces a maximum of 25 years in prison when he is sentenced in April. Read the rest »