Another Georgia football player cited for speeding
Georgia freshman linebacker Sameul M’Pemba was ticketed for driving 88 miles per hour in a 55 mile per hour zone, according to multiple reports.
The Athens Banner Herald reports, according to information obtained from the Oconee County Sherriff’s Office, was pulled over driving a 2020 Dodge Durango at 10:31 a.m.
The incident is the latest in a number of speeding cases Georgia players have been involved in. Receiver Marcus Rosemy-Jacksaint on Wednesday got six months probation, a $1,000 fine and has to take a defensive driving class after pleading guilty to going 90 mph in 45 mph zone in May.
On Jan. 15, offensive lineman Devin Willock and recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy died in a crash after LeCroy and defensive tackle Jalen Carter were racing hours after a national championship celebration. ESPN reported last month, since the fatal accident, Georgia players have been involved in at least 10 reports of traffic-related moving violations in Athens-Clarke County.
Coach Kirby Smart addressed the issue during a spring practice press conference in March.
“I feel like our players are starting to be able to acknowledge and they understand when you make mistakes, decisions that are costly can cost you your life,” Smart said. “That’s not to be taken lightly. I think our guys understand that and we continue to educate them and we’ll continue to do all we can as a university to make sure they behave and do that in a proper way.”
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported in June that Georgia players have been charged with almost 300 traffic violations since Smart took over as head coach in 2015.
“The recent incidents of reckless driving are completely unacceptable, and the University of Georgia Athletic Association is addressing this conduct with appropriate action, including a range of disciplinary measures,” UGA Athletics said in a statement in June.
“Measures can range from suspensions and athletic participation restrictions, to community service, to mental health treatment and mandated educational programs. As with all academic and student-athlete wellness and health matters, the specifics remain confidential, between the Athletic Association and the student-athlete.”
Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.