USC’s Keyshawn Johnson Pleads Not Guilty to Two Theft Counts

USC receiver Keyshawn Johnson pleaded not guilty to grand theft and petty theft Wednesday in Van Nuys Municipal Court.

There was a warrant issued for Johnson in connection with the theft of a $900 portable telephone and a $400 pager from a Van Nuys electronics store in 1991. The two counts of theft are misdemeanors.

Judge Alan E. Ellis released Johnson on his own recognizance.

Johnson, 22, who has repeatedly denied the charges, was not in court Wednesday and was represented by attorney Michael C. Carney.

“(Johnson) pleaded not guilty and we will take the matter to trial,” Carney said.

Johnson’s trial date is Oct. 12.