Following his arraignment on Tuesday at the Brighton District Court, Smith was held on $50,000 cash bail.
Philip A. Tracy, Smith's lawyer, argued for a lower bail, citing Smith's lack of a criminal record. The request was rejected, and Smith was ordered to stay away from BC and the accuser. The Smith family declined to comment.
An official statement issued by football coach Jeff Jagodzinski announced that Smith has been permanently dismissed from the team.
Given the seriousness of the incident, the University has issued a summary suspension pending the outcome of the hearing.
"Essentially, the standard operating procedure in situations like this is if we make a determination that the student poses a threat to the community, the student is summarily suspended, pending a final court decision down the road," said Interim Dean for Student Development Paul Chebator. "The case is resolved under the University's jurisdiction once there is a resolution in the court process."
Smith is the fourth member of the BC football team to face criminal charges. Offensive lineman Gosder Cherilus, defensive back DeJuan Tribble, and running back A.J. Brooks preceded Smith in facing charges. Despite these previous incidents - all bar-related altercations - Smith's alleged offense came as a shock.
"This is an unfortunate incident that is uncharacteristic of BC student-athletes," said University Spokesman Jack Dunn. "The University and the football coach have taken swift action in addressing this issue and the University is reaching out to the alleged victim to make sure that she gets the help and support that she needs."
2008 Woodie Awards
