J.R. Smith Barred From Contacting Woman Accused of Assault

Former NBA player J.R. Smith has been ordered to have no communication with a woman he is accused of assaulting, except through an attorney. The order, issued as an emergency protective order (EPO), also prohibits Smith from going within 333 yards of the woman’s residence or place of employment.

The EPO, signed by a judge on September 29, is set to remain in effect until December 29. Smith was also ordered not to possess any firearms or ammunition.

Smith, 41, was accused on September 18 of intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to a woman described as a family member, household member, or someone with whom he had a dating relationship. A criminal complaint filed on October 2 alleges Smith hit, grabbed, or pushed the woman with his hand. The identity of the woman has not been disclosed.

Smith was arrested during a traffic stop in Texas on September 29. Police discovered an active warrant for his arrest from the Southlake Police Department for family violence assault causing bodily injury. He was released on a $5,000 bond the same day. Court records indicate Smith has since been charged with one count of assault causing bodily injury family violence.

Justin A. Moore, Smith’s attorney, stated that his client is eager for the matter to be resolved and has confidence in the legal process. Moore added that Smith is presumed innocent and they will address the case in court, requesting privacy for all involved.

Smith, a two-time NBA champion, played 16 seasons in the league, earning the Sixth Man of the Year award with the New York Knicks in 2013 and winning his first championship with the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2015-16 season. He graduated in May with a Liberal Arts degree from North Carolina A&T, where he was a walk-on for the men’s golf team.