FORT MYERS, Fla. An accused “Lake Boyz” gang member will remain in prison after a judge denied a bond payment made by his brother on Friday, 20th Judicial Circuit spokeswoman Sara Miles said.
Sammy Watkins, a former South Fort Myers High School standout and wide receiver for the Buffalo Bills, paid for 24-year-old Jari McMiller’s $1 million bond earlier this month with his NFL earnings, the News-Press reported.
A Nebbia hearing was held May 9 to determine whether the money came from a legal source. Although Watkins was unable to appear in court, a signed affidavit and copy of the check was provided.
McMiller was one of 21 suspects arrested on January 23 as part of a Fort Myers Police Department sting. He is facing two racketeering charges.
It is unclear why exactly the judge denied Watkins’ payment.
McMiller is due in court on June 6.
