NRL star Sandon Smith allegedly committed shocking offence while behind the wheel – and the charge can result in nine months in jail

Roosters NRL star Sandon Smith has been hit with a serious charge after allegedly leaving a person badly injured while he was driving.

The 21-year-old halfback is due to front Sydney’s Downing Centre court on Thursday, charged with negligent driving causing grievous bodily harm.

That offence carries a maximum penalty of nine months in jail, a $2200 fine and an unlimited disqualification from driving for a first offence.

A spokesperson for the Roosters has confirmed the club is aware of the charge, as is the NRL Integrity Unit.

Smith made his NRL debut in round 14, 2023 against the Bulldogs – making history in the process as he became the first Roosters star to make it into first grade after coming through the club’s central coast pathways program.

This season he filled in for halfback Sam Walker after he was seriously injured in the team’s loss to Canberra on September 1.

The 21-year-old is regarded as the first choice to play halfback for the Roosters next season with their regular No.7 Sam Walker out for a long stretch with a serious injury

Smith went on to steer the side during their big win over Souths in the last match of the regular season, before retaining his spot for the Roosters’ finals campaign.

He was heavily targeted in their loss to Penrith in week one of the finals before aiming up as the Chooks comfortably beat Manly the following week, then fell to the Storm on September 27 to end their season.

Depending on the result of his hearing in court, Smith should be first in line to play halfback for the Roosters in 2025, given Walker is not expected back until around halfway through the season.