CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Carolina Panthers wide receiver Shi Smith was arrested Friday on multiple charges, including possession of both an unlawful handgun and a narcotic with intent to distribute, multiple media outlets reported.
Per a team spokesperson, the #Panthers are aware of Shi Smith’s (WR) arrest in Union County, but declined to comment, given the legal proceedings are still pending
— DaShawn Brown (@DaShawnWSOC9) March 25, 2022
Smith, a former University of South Carolina standout, was arrested in Union County, South Carolina, and charged with unlawful carrying of a handgun, possession of a Schedule I drug and speeding between 16 mph and 24 mph over the speed limit, WSOC-TV reported.
In a statement provided to the TV station, a Panthers spokesperson said, “We are aware. This is a pending legal matter and there will be no further comment at this time.”
Smith, 23, was released from the county detention center on a $5,000 bond for the drug charge and $1,000 bond for the gun charge, ESPN reported.
A source with knowledge of the situation told the sports news network that the narcotic cited in arrest documents was marijuana.
Smith, who was selected by the Panthers in the sixth round of the 2021 draft, is slated for a first court appearance on June 14, the second day of the franchise’s four-day minicamp, ESPN reported.
Smith had six catches for 104 yards in his rookie season and is entering the second year of a four-year, $3.4 million contract, the network reported.
©2022 Cox Media Group
