Chris 'Birdman' Anderson Excused Indefinitely for Child Pornography Investigation

Chris Birdman Anderson has been excused indefinitely from the Denver Nuggets after his home became the target of a child pornography investigation by the Internet Crimes Against Children division of the Douglas County Sheriff's Department.

Anderson has been excused from all basketball related activities with the Nuggets in their playoff series against the Los Angeles Lakers as he deals with the reported investigation. Anderson hadn't played in the postseason as of Game 6 when the team made the announcement hours before a 113-96 win over the Lakers to force a Game 7.

Nuggets coach George Karl said that he spoke to the Birdman before the team's game and that the Nuggets player was emotional.

For me right now, I think I'm at a stage where I don't know enough information, Nuggets coach George Karl said before Thursday night's game. I think we all were advised probably not to talk about it until we know the information. The only thing I will say is I trust Chris. In my years with him, he's been fantastic. I think he's really grown as a person. We're going to support him and stand by him.

Ron Hanavan, a Douglas County spokesman, told reporters that Anderson hasn't been arrested on any charges, but that a search of his home occurred. He said that the sheriff's department began investigating Anderson in February after receiving a tip from a law enforcement agency in California, but didn't elaborate.

Mark Bryant, Anderson's attorney, released a statement that said: At this time, I respect the process and I have no further comment to protect the integrity of everyone involved. We'll proceed from there.

Anderson, a 10-year NBA veteran, has had some issues in the past, notably with drugs. He was banned from the NBA for two years in 2006 when he violated the NBA's drug policy.