Ex-UW Athletes Charged With Theft-Related Crimes

LARAMIE, Wyo. (AP) — Two former University of Wyoming athletes who were kicked off their teams after they were arrested Tuesday have been charged with theft-related crimes.

The Associated Press reports former men's basketball player Shakir Smith faces one felony count of larceny for his alleged involvement in a burglary Sept. 29. Former wrestler Patrick Martinez faces one misdemeanor count of wrongfully taking or disposing of property for allegedly having a stolen TV that belonged to the university's athletic department.

A news release from the UW athletics department after the players were dismissed said Cowboys basketball coach Larry Shyatt and wrestling coach Mark Branch wouldn't comment.

Smith, a sophomore, played in 15 games last season with the Cowboys. Martinez, a junior, was one of Wyoming's top returning wrestlers this season.