Music: {allcanada} B.C. LIONS CUT TIES WITH KR DAVIS OVER DRUG ARREST

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

{allcanada} B.C. LIONS CUT TIES WITH KR DAVIS OVER DRUG ARREST

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SURREY, B.C. -- The B.C. Lions have terminated the CFL contract of kick-return specialist Yonus Davis, who is facing drug charges in California.

An exciting returner, Davis was the West Division finalist last season for the CFL's outstanding special teams player.

"After careful consideration, we have reached the decision to release Yonus from his contract," Dennis Skulsky, the Lions' president and chief executive officer, said Tuesday.

"It's a tough decision and we certainly weighed the factors. We have an obligation to our fans, to the corporate sponsors and partners, to our team . . . and to the CFL to ensure we conduct ourselves with integrity on and off the field."

The 26-year-old Davis was arrested April 9 with more than 27 kilograms of ecstasy in his possession.

The native of Oakland, Calif., is free after posting US$150,000 bail. He has been charged with one felony count of attempting to possess with intent to distribute and faces a maximum prison sentence of 20 years.

Wally Buono, the Lions coach and general manager, said it wasn't a happy day for the club.

"It's a sad day today that we have to take the opportunity away from a young person," said Buono.

Buono said he has spoken with Davis and his agent.

"He was quite sombre," said Buono. "I would be shocked if he wasn't expecting this.

"He appreciated that we were sensitive about trying to make it all work. When you start looking at all the information that is available . . . there is no choice."

Davis was entering the option year of his contract and the Lions had discussed giving him an extension. He earned $43,000 last year as a rookie.

The former San Jose State starter led the West with 1,642 all-purpose yards.

He had 64 punt returns for 761 yards and two touchdowns.