49ers release Aldon Smith after hit-and-run, DUI arrest
SANTA CLARA, Calif. -The San Francisco 49ers are releasing linebacker Aldon Smith following his arrest Thursday night in connection with a hit-and-run car incident.
The San Francisco 49ers football player is also charged with driving under the influence and vandalism, the department announced. Jail records show Smith is being held at the Santa Clara County jail on a $26,000 bail.
The team announced the decision in a brief statement released Friday.
"This organization has tried very hard to help Aldon fight his issues. Although he is no longer a member of this team, our support and concern for him will continue," the team said.
CBS San Francisco talked to Smith as he was leaving jail Friday morning.
"This wasn't a DUI. The situation that happened could have been handled differently, and I apologize for everybody I did let down," Smith said. "And I apologize for how it all played out, but as far as everything is concerned, it'll work out how it's supposed to work out. That's all."
Smith has played just 18 games during the last two seasons, primarily because of off-the-field issues.
Smith was previously arrested for DUI in January 2012. Six months later he faced assault weapons charges after an incident at a party in which suffered minor stab wounds. In September 2013, Smith was again arrested for suspicion of DUI and a short time later he entered rehab. He was suspended nine games as a result of that incident.
In April 2014, Smith was taken into custody at Los Angeles International Airport and charged for a false report of a bomb threat, though the charge was later dropped.