Probe of Bias’ Death Produces 71 Subpoenas

Maryland’s state attorney for Prince George’s County has issued 61 subpoenas and prepared another 10 in the investigation of the cocaine death of University of Maryland basketball star Len Bias, it was announced Monday in Upper Marlboro, Md.

State’s Attorney Arthur Marshall said that the witnesses being called range from the state medical examiner to roommates and friends of the All-American.

“We are calling people we think have specific information about the death,” Marshall said. “I think, as time goes on, we will find ourselves talking to more and more people and more subpoenas will be issued.”

Marshall said a subpoena was issued for Maryland basketball Coach Lefty Driesell, but it was being withheld until investigators can talk to the coach about a meeting he held with players the morning Bias died.

“I’m sure he eventually will be called,” Marshall said.

Nine other subpoenas are being withheld for other reasons, including possible immunity problems. Under Maryland law, a person compelled to testify before a grand jury cannot be prosecuted for any crime connected to his testimony, Marshall said.

“We want to make sure we don’t grant immunity to someone who may have had something to do with bringing drugs on to the campus that day,” Marshall said.

Three men who were with Bias the morning he died--roommates Terry Long and David Gregg, and friend Brian Tribble--were not among those subpoenaed, Marshall said. The three men have lawyers and have refused to voluntarily speak with investigators about the case.

Bias died June 19, two days after being drafted by the National Basketball Assn. champion Boston Celtics.