Anthony Smith bond set at $500K in Nebraska felony case
Anthony Smith can be released on $500K bond, but a judge barred the former UFC fighter from contacting his wife, TMZ reports.
By Poppy Nakagawa · Culture Writer
2 min read
Anthony Smith bond was set at $500,000 Wednesday in Sarpy County, Nebraska, after the former UFC fighter’s arrest on three felony charges, TMZ reported.
Smith, 38, appeared before a judge for the first time Wednesday morning, according to TMZ. The judge granted bond, meaning Smith can be released from the county jail while the case moves forward if he posts the required amount.
The release would come with tight limits. TMZ reported that Smith is barred from having any contact with his wife, Mikhala Smith, as a condition of bond.
Smith also cannot leave Nebraska without permission, according to TMZ. He must also avoid further legal trouble while out pending trial.
What is Anthony Smith accused of?
TMZ reported that Smith was booked Monday evening at about 8:45 p.m. He is facing felony charges of terroristic threats, first-degree false imprisonment and domestic violence causing serious bodily injury.
The allegations have not been proven in court. TMZ reported that it was unclear what led to Smith’s arrest.
The no-contact order places a clear boundary between Smith and his wife while the case is pending. TMZ said the order could point to her being connected to the case in some way, though the outlet also reported that the circumstances of the arrest remain unclear.
If Smith is convicted, TMZ reported that the charges can carry a total potential penalty of up to 26 years in prison.
When could Anthony Smith be released?
TMZ reported that Smith could be released as early as Wednesday morning once the bond is posted. Until then, he remains in county custody.
Bond allows a defendant to leave jail while awaiting trial, as long as the court’s conditions are followed. In Smith’s case, those conditions include no contact with Mikhala Smith, no travel outside Nebraska without permission and no new trouble with the law, according to TMZ.
Smith is best known to fight fans as a former UFC light heavyweight title contender. TMZ identified him as a former UFC star in its report on the Nebraska case.
The case is still developing, and the next steps in court were not detailed in TMZ’s report.
This story draws on original reporting from TMZ.