Alleged J.R. Smith assault victim given protective order against ex-NBA star after ‘serious bodily injury’
An emergency protective order has been filed against former NBA star J.R. Smith after he was accused of causing “serious bodily injury” to a woman during a violent incident in Texas last month, new court documents obtained by the California Post show.
Smith has been ordered to have “zero communication” with the woman except through an attorney, and he has also been barred from going within 333 yards of the woman’s residence or place of employment, a copy of the EPO states.
Smith also cannot possess a firearm or ammunition, according to the EPO.
The order, which was signed by a judge on Sept. 29, is to remain in effect until Dec. 29, the document states.
Smith was accused on Sept. 18 of “intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly” causing injury to a woman who was a member of his family or household or with whom he had a dating relationship, a criminal complaint filed on Oct. 2 states.
Smith allegedly hit, grabbed or pushed the woman with his hand during the altercation, according to the complaint.
A warrant for Smith’s arrest was issued by the Southlake Police Department a short time after the alleged incident, and the ex-Los Angeles Lakers guard was taken into custody over the matter during a traffic stop in Royse City, Texas on Sept. 28.
Smith, who was released on $5,000 bond on Sept. 29, has since been charged with one count of assault causing bodily injury family violence, court records show.
The 41-year-old’s attorney, Justin A. Moore, said in a statement to The Post last week that “JR is eager to see this matter resolved and has full confidence in the legal process.
“He is presumed innocent,” the lawyer added, “and we will address this matter in Court. We ask that everyone respect the privacy of all involved throughout the process.”
A request on Thursday seeking further comment from Moore on the EPO was not returned.
Smith played in the NBA from 2004 to 2020 and won two NBA championships.