A shocking case has emerged from the Minnesota Timberwolves organization, as former employee Somak Sarkar faces charges of stealing sensitive team data, including strategic NBA information. Here’s what you need to know about this alarming incident:
The Theft
According to a criminal complaint filed Wednesday, Sachin Gupta, the head of the Wolves’ analytics department, had over 5,000 files of sensitive team data stolen last month. The stolen hard drive contained crucial information such as employment and player contracts, alongside strategic NBA insights.
The Suspect
The authorities have identified Somak Sarkar, 33, of Minneapolis, as the suspect who is a member of the team’s coaching staff. Sarkar had been working with the Timberwolves since August 2021 and had previously held positions with the New York Knicks and the New Orleans Pelicans.
The Allegations
Video surveillance allegedly captured Sarkar entering Gupta’s closed office on the evening of Feb. 3, where he accessed the stolen hard drive. Upon investigation, it was revealed that Sarkar had downloaded the sensitive files onto another device.
The Investigation
Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Sarkar’s home, where they discovered several storage devices containing the stolen information. When questioned, Sarkar claimed he had simply forgotten to return the hard drive after using it.
Legal Ramifications
NBA charged Sarkar with felony 3rd-degree burglary and remains in custody. They scheduled a hearing to appear in Hennepin County District Court on Thursday afternoon.
Somak Sarkar, an employee of the Minnesota Timberwolves, was fired and arrested on charges of third-degree burglary, per @baxter
He is accused of taking several internal files, including “strategic NBA information,” from a team executive
(Via https://t.co/5lhjJI8P83) pic.twitter.com/ThNhQOBTCX
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 20, 2024
This disturbing incident highlights the importance of safeguarding sensitive information within professional sports organizations. The Timberwolves’ swift action in terminating Sarkar’s employment and pursuing legal recourse underscores their commitment to protecting their proprietary data and maintaining the integrity of the NBA.
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