Laurence Maroney Beats Pot Charge

ST. LOUIS (CN) - NFL running back Laurence Maroney was found not guilty of misdemeanor marijuana possession in a bench trial before a city judge.

Maroney, 26, is a free agent. He began his NFL career with the New England Patriots and played for the Denver Broncos last year. He was arrested with several others on Jan. 17, after police approached cars slowing in traffic, and said they smelled marijuana and found weapons in one of the cars.

Two police officers testified against Maroney as the prosecution presented its case. Maroney's attorney, Scott Rosenblum, sought a directed verdict, claiming the state did not meet its burden of proof.

Judge Elizabeth Byrne Hogan agreed and found Maroney not guilty.

Maroney was a fan favorite in his 4 years with the Patriots. The team released him in frustration for his failure to hit the hole; he often ran sideways more than upfield.

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