San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith pleaded no contest to felony weapons possession charges and two counts of misdemeanor DUI on Wednesday during a court appearance.
Smith appeared in front of the Santa Clara County Superior Courtroom where he entered his pleas. If convicted Smith can be levied a sentence somewhere within the range of no time in custody to four years and four months behind bars. However, it is ultimately left up to the judge.
Sentencing for Smith is scheduled to take place on July 25. The 49ers are expected to begin training camp two days earlier in Santa Clara.
Back in November, Smith also pleaded not guilty to three felony counts of illegal possession of firearms after law enforcement officials discovered three assault rifles on Smith’s person. This discovery was in connection to an incident that transpired during a party that took place in June 2012 at Smith’s residence.
According to police reports, during the party Smith fired a handgun in the air and a melee ensued resulting in two other people being shot.
The NFL has yet to reach a decision as it pertains to disciplinary actions being taken against Smith.
Last season Smith took a five-game hiatus in order to undergo substance abuse treatment. As an integral piece of the 49ers pass rush, Smith finished the 2013 season with 8 1/2 sacks in 11 games.
Smith’s most recent brush with the law came last month when he was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport after authorities stated that he made a bomb threat to security agents during a screening.
Photo Credit: ESPN, Black Sports Online
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