Allen Says Family Knew of Plot to Kill His Stepfather

SuperSonics G Ray Allen spoke for the first time yesterday about an alleged plot to kill his stepfather, saying his family had been aware of the situation for more than a year.

Ernest C. Garlington, 37, is being held on a $1.7 million bond on charges he conspired to murder Derek Hopson, Allen's stepfather. Garlington and Terrence Battle, 31, were charged Wednesday in a murder-for-hire plot against Hopson.

Hopson was once married to Garlington's wife and is now married to Flora Allen-Hopson, Allen's mother.

"I just want to make sure my mom is safe," Allen said.

· A. JOHNSON SENTENCED: Pacers G Anthony Johnson was sentenced to a year of probation after pleading no contest to a misdemeanor assault charge for his role in a brawl with the Pistons on Nov. 19.

He also was ordered to perform 100 hours of community service, directed to attend counseling and fined $250.

-- From News Services