Georgia Cornerback Facing Drug Charge
On March 11, Georgia cornerback Branden Smith was arrested and charged with misdemeanor marijuana possession.
Smith was driving on Highway 431 in Abbeville, about 25 miles north of Dothan in southeast Alabama. Police said that Smith was “following too close and had a tag light that was out.” After pulling the 2007 Dodge Charger over at about 11:30 pm, the officer smelled marijuana. The car was searched, and a “baseball size package of marijuana” was found, according to Henry County Sheriff William Maddox. Smith and his passenger Danze Woods were taken into custody and transported to Henry County Jail.
This arrest means that Smith will automatically be suspended from at least one game this season. Under the athletic association policy, he is required to be suspended for 10 percent of a season, but the coach gets to decide if he will miss one game or two. Most colleges are not as strict.
In January, teammate and starting cornerback Sanders Commings was arrested for domestic violence/simple battery. Coach Mark Richt suspended him for the first two games of the upcoming season.
A conviction on drug charges can be devastating. Drug crimes have harsh penalties. If convicted, a person faces hefty fines and prison time, among other things. Having an aggressive attorney at your side who will fight to protect your rights is vital.
Read the original article here.
- Published in Criminal Law
Play It Safe- Tips From Troy Police Chief
On March 26, a female Troy University student was the victim in a burglary and sexual assault at Hunters Mountain MHP. The incident occurred at about 3:30 pm. The victim believes she did not know her attacker. Troy Police are aggressively investigating this case.
With the suspect still on the loose, residents of Southeastern Alabama may be worried about their safety. Troy Police are urging residents to report suspicious situations immediately.
In addition, Troy Police Chief Jimmy Ernis urges everyone to practice the following safety measures:
- Use “peepholes” in doors. Do not open your door without knowing who is there, or without having a way to observe the person.
- Always lock the doors in your home and vehicle.
- Try to keep your cell phone close by at all times, in case of an emergency.
- Always be aware of what is going on around you. Stay alert to your surroundings.
- A personal safety or self defense course may help you feel more confident and in-control.
- Don’t walk alone at night, and avoid shortcuts through areas you are not familiar with. When you go out, take a friend with you, and stay together.
- And, as always, if you feel uneasy about a suspicious situation, call the police. If it is an emergency, call 911, and stay on the phone until an officer arrives.
Read the original article here.
- Published in Criminal Law