Authorities can’t prove charges against Tapia

Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2003 | 10:18 a.m.

Boxer Johnny Tapia will not face prosecution on drug paraphernalia charges in Arizona.

Deputy Mohave County Attorney Lee Jantzen said authorities have been unable to prove a drug smoking pipe found at a Golden Valley residence near Kingman belongs to Tapia.

Tapia was placed on a respirator and treated for head trauma in Las Vegas last month after he and his cousin were involved in a police standoff at a Golden Valley house. He fell ill several hours after returning to his Las Vegas home Jan. 11 but has since been released from a hospital.

Tapia, who two years ago was hospitalized for a drug overdose after attempting suicide, last fought Nov. 3. He lost a 12-round decision to bantamweight Marco Antonio Barrera.

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