Jamar Smith, the Illinois guard (and convicted felon) who wrecked his car into a tree while driving drunk early in 2007, had his probation revoked and is being sought by police in Champaign County.

Here’s the scoop, according to The Champaign News-Gazette:

Champaign County State’s Attorney Julia Rietz told The News-Gazette the petition filed Tuesday alleges that Smith violated his probation by drinking alcohol over the weekend. A warrant for his arrest was issued Tuesday morning, and bond was set at $25,000.

The incident that led to the petition happened Friday outside Fubar, a campus bar. Champaign police investigated.

It’s decision time for our good friend Bruce. One has to believe that ties will be cut with Mr. Smith after this report, but with last year’s 13-16 debacle, Brucey might do all he can to keep this criminal around. Raise your hand if you feel sorry for Illinois.

Update: Jamar Smith dismissed from Illinois (FightingIllini.com)

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Jamar Smith, whom you may remember nearly killed a teammate in a drunk driving accident earlier this year, will remain with the Illinois basketball program. Smith will redshirt the 2007-2008 season and will be allowed to return to the team in 2008-2009.

Here is what our favorite coach, Bruce Weber, had to say about the situation:

”Jamar Smith has had a productive summer. He’s in the process of meeting his legal obligations while continuing to work on his personal issues. We feel it’s in Jamar’s best interest that he sit out the 2007-08 season and take a redshirt year. We’ll continue to monitor his progress. If all obligations are met, he’ll return to competition for the 2008-09 season.”

So rather than doing the right thing by cutting all ties with Smith, Weber will allow him to sit out a year and retain his remaining eligibility. Makes complete sense to me.

The last time I checked, playing college basketball is more of a privilege than a right. However, this decision just screams of desperation by Weber to keep a talented player around.

Smith pleaded guilty to drunk driving and nearly killed teammate Brian Carlwell. To make matters worse, he left the scene of the accident with a seriously injured Carlwell in the car. If that isn’t enough to kick him to the curb, I’m not sure what is.

I’m sure a lot of Illinois fans will try to justify this by claiming that Smith is a kid who made a mistake and he deserves a second chance. He might deserve a second chance, but it shouldn’t be at Illinois. Hasn’t he already left a large enough stain on your program?