Police clear Puka Nacua's brother in car theft investigation

Field Level Media|published: Fri 16th January, 11:07 2026

Panthers’ Samson Nacua (86) celebrates as he scores a touchdown during the UFL game between the Memphis Showboats and Michigan Panthers at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, Tenn., on Sunday, March 30, 2025.

Investigators cleared the brother of NFL star Puka Nacua in an investigation into an alleged car theft, determining it was a misunderstanding.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department arrested Samson Nacua and Trey Rose last month for allegedly taking a vehicle belonging to Los Angeles Lakers forward Adou Thiero.

On Thursday, police in the West Hollywood Station told ABC7 in L.A. that the men believed it was Puka Nacua's car, which has a similar model and color. Thiero did not want to press charges.

"This matter arose from a misunderstanding involving a vehicle and was promptly dismissed after review by the LAPD's Office," said Samson Nacua's attorneys, Jason Lampert and Michael Goldstein. "The case is now closed."

Samson Nacua, 27, played wide receiver in college at Utah and BYU and was drafted earlier this week by the UFL's Birmingham Stallions.

Puka Nacua, 24, is an All-Pro receiver for the Los Angeles Rams and is preparing to face the host Chicago Bears in the NFC divisional round on Sunday night. He caught 10 passes for 111 yards and a touchdown in last weekend's wild-card win at Carolina.

--Field Level Media