It looks like Mississippi State football might be without one of their key components on offense once the season begins.
Mississippi State wide receiver De’Runnya Wilson was reportedly one of four people arrested following a traffic stop in Alabama on Friday night.
River Falls police chief Greg Jackson told WSFA that officers detected the scent of marijuana after the vehicle the four were traveling in was pulled over for speeding. A K-9 unit was brought in to the stop, which occurred around 9 p.m.:
“Wilson, Artis Cleveland, Keith Middleton, and Isaiah Maston were charged with possession of marijuana second degree and possession of drug paraphernalia and booked in the Covington County Jail.”
Jackson also told WSFA the group was headed for a birthday party before the arrests. The police chief explained to a separate outlet, WAAO, that “all four occupants inside the vehicle admitted they couldn’t pass a drug test.”
Wilson led Mississippi State in receiving last season with 47 catches for 680 yards and nine touchdowns. The production was nearly double what he put up during his freshman campaign. He’s expected to play a key role in the Bulldogs’ passing game again next fall.
But before you get ahead of yourself, note that the report made no mention of potential discipline from the school, and it didn’t even mention a court date. According to NORML, which specializes in marijuana reform around the country, Mississippi laws are currently as followed:
Possession
A first offense for possession of 30 grams or less is punishable by a fine of $100-$250.Paraphernalia
Possession of paraphernalia is a misdemeanor punishable by a maximum of 6 months imprisonment and a maximum fine of $500.DECRIMINALIZATION
The state has decriminalized marijuana to some degree. Typically, decriminalization means no prison time or criminal record for first-time possession of a small amount for personal consumption. The conduct is treated like a minor traffic violation.
That doesn’t sound so bad. First time offenders get a mere slap on the wrist. They’ll be needing their talented WR if they’re going to make any noise this upcoming football season, so let’s hope Mr. Wilson gets his community service or whatever he’s penalized with out of the way and this never happens again.
H/T Bleacher