Georgia football offensive lineman Jahzare Jackson has entered into a pre-trial diversion program for his July 16 arrest in Athens on drug-related charges.
Jackson was pulled over by the Georgia State Patrol while driving a 2017 Tesla and charged with felony marijuana possession of more than an ounce and three misdemeanors -- possession and use of drug-related objects, possession of marijuana of less than an ounce and holding/supporting a wireless telecommunications device.
Those charges will be dismissed in 12 months if he meets the conditions of the diversion program, his attorney, Billy Healan, told the Athens Banner-Herald.
The sophomore must complete a substance abuse counseling program, pay a $1,000 program fee and stay out of trouble, Healan said. Jackson was accepted into the diversion program Monday in Superior Court.
It is unclear if the development in Jackson's case will have any bearing on a possible suspension for Saturday's game against Marshall. Jackson, a San Diego native, played in every game last season, mostly on special teams,
Coach Kirby Smart said at the start of preseason camp that Jackson was being "disciplined internally."
Under Georgia athletics policy, a felony arrest brings an immediate suspension from competition, pending review by the athletic department's Comprehensive Action Plan Committee.
After reviewing the facts, it forwards a recommendation to athletic director Josh Brooks, who will approve, modify or return the case to the committee.
A first-time violation of the school's substance abuse policy -- which includes marijuana -- also triggers a one-game suspension in football, but there is an appeals process for "medical amnesty."
"Jahzare regrets his mistake and is ready to put this incident behind him," Healan said. "He remains focused on academics and football."