Michigan football senior defensive tackle Mazi Smith may face a felony weapons charge for carrying a concealed weapon in early October, according to multiple sources.
A complaint was not filed until late November, Washtenaw County 15th District court records said, with no recorded reason as to why it took two months to file. The 21-year-old will be represented by Ann Arbor Attorney John A. Shea.
Under Michigan state law, it is illegal to carry what is considered a “dangerous weapon” or “a firearm concealed on or about your person or in a vehicle (concealed or otherwise) unless licensed to do so.” The felony charge could be punishable by five years in prison and a $2,500 fine. Michigan does have a concealed pistol license that allows individuals to carry a firearm should they meet certain requirements.
The 6-foot-3-inch co-captain was seen as one of the best in the state of Michigan best during his final years at East Kentwood High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The former-four-star tackle passed up offers from Notre Dame, Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State and Wisconsin, all of whom assigned two recruiters in an attempt to land the Under Armour All-American game participant, according to 247Sports.
Mazi Smith started in every one of Michigan football's 12 games this season before the potential charges, gaining 21 solo tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and one quarterback hit.
Both Michigan football head coach Jim Harbaugh and Athletic Director Warde Manuel issued statements on Thursday afternoon.
“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 that was 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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