Panthers player Shi Smith gets diversion for SC drug, gun charges, prosecutor says
Carolina Panthers football player Shi Smith has entered a diversion program in connection with South Carolina weapon and drug charges, prosecutors said.
Shiyun Malik “Shi” Smith must complete the program to have his record cleared, said Kevin Brackett, 16th Circuit Solicitor for York and Union counties in South Carolina.
Smith is a former University of South Carolina player and now wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers. He was charged during a March traffic stop with having around 49 grams of marijuana and an gun without a concealed carry permit, according to arrest warrants obtained by The Herald.
The arrest was near Smith’s hometown of Union, S.C., which is southwest of Charlotte and Rock Hill.
Smith apologizes in letter to prosecutors
In a letter to prosecutors obtained by The Herald, Smith apologized for his actions in March.
Smith said in the letter he learned from his mistake, and vowed to complete the diversion program. Smith said in the letter he understands as an NFL player he is someone who is looked up to by young people and the community.
Smith said he understands because of his public stature as an NFL player, his actions have consequences.
“I will do the right thing,” Smith said in the letter.
In the 2022 season, Smith has 10 catches for 142 yards, according to statistics.
A public figure
Brackett told The Herald Tuesday that Smith had no prior criminal record and qualifies for the diversion program.
Brackett said Smith was treated no different than any other person, even though Smith is a public figure who plays professional football.
“This is appropriate for anyone in similar circumstances,” Brackett said.
Brackett said he hopes Smith can return to being a role model for young people.
“I hope that this incident has given him the insight needed to avoid any more poor decisions in the future and he becomes the kind of young man that inspires the kids who look up to him to be their best,” Brackett told The Herald.
The charges will remain pending until the program is completed, South Carolina court records show.
A spokesman for the Panthers declined comment Tuesday.
Check back for updates on this developing story.
This story was originally published November 15, 2022 at 11:02 AM.
