BYU's Tonga arrested

Both Tongas played at Aragon High School in San Mateo, Calif., where their cousin, Seta Pohahau, is preparing for his senior year. Pohahau has committed to sign with BYU in February to play running back for the Cougars in 2008.

Provo police ticketed Manase Tonga in August 2006 for failing to stop at a stop sign. Tonga didn't pay the fine and a warrant was issued for his arrest in November.

Provo police ticketed Tonga again on April 23 for failing to stop at a stop sign and expired registration, but he was not arrested then on the warrant. Dewey didn't know if the officer involved in that stop warned Tonga about the arrest warrant.

Tonga's arrest is similar to a December 2005 incident when two Utah Jazz players gave false names to police after a fight in Park City.

Deron Williams told police his name was Torrey Ellis. Robert Whaley, who no longer is with the team, said his name was Bobby Williams. Both players also provided fictitious dates of birth.

The Jazz fined both players and suspended Whaley for a game. Charged with misdemeanors for providing false information to police, Deron Williams pleaded guilty and Whaley pleaded no contest in Summit County's justice court.

Each paid a $175 fine.

---

E-mail: twalch@desnews.com