Facing felony weapon charge, Michigan DT Mazi Smith will continue to participate as member of Wolverines
Michigan Wolverines football senior captain and defensive tackle Mazi Smith is facing felony charges for carrying a concealed weapon, according to court documents. The incident took place Oct. 7, but the charges were not filed until the morning of Nov. 30 in the 15th District Court in Ann Arbor, Mich.
Michigan athletic director Warde Manuel and head coach Jim Harbaugh released statements Thursday afternoon. Smith will remain an active participant of the team as the judicial process plays out, Manuel revealed.
“We are aware of the charge against Mazi from a traffic stop back in October,” Manuel said. “Mazi was honest, forthcoming and cooperative from the very beginning and is a tremendous young man. He is not and never has been considered a threat to the University or community.
“Based on the information communicated to us, we will continue to allow the judicial process to play out. Mazi will continue to participate as a member of the team.”
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“I have respect for our judicial process and with that respect brings confidence that a fair and just resolution is forthcoming,” Harbaugh added. “Mazi’s character and the trust that he has earned over the past four years will continue to be considered throughout the process.”
The Detroit Free Press reported that Smith, who was in the process of receiving a concealed carry permit when pulled over, has been cleared to travel out of state, meaning he can play in this weekend’s Big Ten championship game and the College Football Playoff or Michigan’s bowl game.
Smith has started all 12 games for Michigan and ranks sixth on the defense with 43 tackles, including 2.5 for loss. He posted 3 tackles while playing a career-high 61 snaps in a 45-23 win over Ohio State last weekend.
Michigan is set to take on Purdue in the Big Ten championship game Saturday night in Indianapolis.
Here is the charge that was filed:
750.227 Concealed weapons; carrying; penalty.
Sec. 227.
(1) A person shall not carry a dagger, dirk, stiletto, a double-edged nonfolding stabbing instrument of any length, or any other dangerous weapon, except a hunting knife adapted and carried as such, concealed on or about his or her person, or whether concealed or otherwise in any vehicle operated or occupied by the person, except in his or her dwelling house, place of business or on other land possessed by the person.
(2) A person shall not carry a pistol concealed on or about his or her person, or, whether concealed or otherwise, in a vehicle operated or occupied by the person, except in his or her dwelling house, place of business, or on other land possessed by the person, without a license to carry the pistol as provided by law and if licensed, shall not carry the pistol in a place or manner inconsistent with any restrictions upon such license.
(3) A person who violates this section is guilty of a felony, punishable by imprisonment for not more than 5 years, or by a fine of not more than $2,500.00.
