Raja Jackson’s case is no longer just heading toward punishment — he is already behind bars.
According to the LA Times, Jackson was jailed on Thursday after reaching a plea deal in the attack on independent wrestler Syko Stu, real name Stuart Smith. Under the deal, Jackson must serve 90 days in jail, spend two years on formal probation, and pay $81,000 in restitution to Smith.
Jackson was taken into custody on Thursday and is expected to complete the agreed-upon jail sentence before likely being released at his next hearing in late September, according to his attorney, Michael Freedman.
The case goes back to the violent incident at a Knokx Pro Wrestling event, where Jackson attacked Smith in the ring while Smith was already unconscious. Jackson had previously pleaded no contest to one felony count of battery with serious bodily injury and admitted to allegations involving personal infliction of great bodily injury and violent conduct.
Smith also spoke in court Thursday, making it clear the damage from the attack is still very real. Even after everything, Smith said he was not standing there looking for revenge.
“What happened affected me deeply and I do not minimize the seriousness of it. The injuries I suffered led to a long and difficult recovery that I am still trying to recover from, including treatment for a severe traumatic brain injury, a shattered maxilla and a bone graft procedure. I do not stand here with hatred for a desire for revenge. I hold no grudges against Mr. Jackson. People can make terrible decisions in difficult moments.”
So now Jackson’s plea deal has moved from paper to reality. He is serving jail time, Smith is still recovering from serious injuries, and the case that started with a shocking wrestling event attack is finally nearing its end.
Do you think Raja Jackson’s sentence was enough given Syko Stu’s injuries, or should the punishment have been harsher? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know.
