49ers release Aldon Smith after latest arrest
The San Francisco 49ers will release defensive end Aldon Smith after his arrest Friday morning, the team announced Friday.
Smith was arrested Friday morning on suspicion of hit-and-run, driving under the influence and vandalism. It was his fifth arrest in the past three years and his third for drunk driving.
Police said the 25-year-old Smith was attempting to park his car at 8:46 p.m. at his condo in Santa Clara, Calif., when he struck another vehicle and fled the scene. Smith also caused additional damage to the parked car with the door of his own vehicle.
Afterward, Smith returned to the scene of the crime where officers were located and was displaying “objective symptoms of being under the influence of an alcoholic beverage.” He then took a field sobriety test, and was subsequently arrested and taken to jail.
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Upon being released from jail earlier Friday, Smith told ABC 7 in San Francisco “there’s no DUI” and that “the truth will come out.”
“This organization has tried very hard to help Aldon fight his issues,” the team said in a statement. “Although he is no long a member of this team, our support and concern for him will continue.”
San Francisco head coach Jim Tomsula told reporters it is a “sad day.”
“Although he won’t be playing football for the San Francisco 49ers, he won’t walk this path alone,” said Tomsula.
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Just this week, 49ers general manager Trent Baalke told reporters that the team had plans to keep Smith, who is in the final season of his deal, after restructuring his $9.75 million contract.
Smith has 44 sacks and five forced fumbles in the 50 games he has played since San Francisco selected him with the No. 7 pick in the 2011 NFL draft. He was named to the Pro Bowl and was a First Team All-Pro selection in 2012.
If prosecutors file charges, Smith will be due in court on Oct. 6 for arraignment.
- Dan Gartland and Scooby Axson
