The website Outkick has reported that a member of the Carolina Panthers football team found himself in legal hot water late last week.
According to WSOC-TV reporter DaShawn Brown, 23-year-old wide receiver Shi Smith was taken into custody in Union County, South Carolina last week on drug and weapons charges.
Smith was accused of possessing marijuana with intent to distribute
Smith was accused on Friday of illegally carrying a handgun as well as possessing marijuana. The professional athlete was also alleged to be driving between 16 and 24 miles per hour over the posted speed limit.
Brown noted that a spokesperson with Smith’s team declined to comment on the matter given that criminal charges remain pending.
Meanwhile, Fox News reported that Smith’s court date is scheduled for June 14, which falls on the second day of the Panthers’ minicamp.
ESPN writer David Newton stated that Smith’s drug charge includes an intent to distribute and that he was released on a $5,000 bond. Newton added that Smith was also required to put up at $1,000 for his firearm charge.
Newton went on to note that Smith, who has a $3.4 million contract, was signed to the Panthers in the sixth round of last year’s draft and had six catches for 104 yards this past season.
Smith says fellow player worked to help him with his “quick temper”
Prior to joining the Panthers, Smith played college football with the University of South Carolina Gamecocks where he formed a close bond with teammate Deebo Samuel.
“Ever since my freshman year he took me under his wing as a little bro,” NBC Sports quoted Smith as saying of Samuel last year.
“Me and Deebo have a very good relationship,” Smith declared, adding, “It means a lot. He definitely prepared me for this moment and he helps me a lot.”
“Deebo helped me with the little things, tips on football, what I need to improve upon, releasing, blocking, stuff like that,” Smith continued.
“Telling me about my attitude, I should work on that a little bit. I just got a quick temper. I get heated a little bit so that’s one of the things I need to work on.”