With top-ranked USC’s season opener against Hawaii coming up fast, the Trojans have actually added a scholarship player to its roster.
Or, re-added in this case.
Three months after being sentenced to one year in prison for leaving the scene of an accident last year, linebacker Simione Vehikite has rejoined the team and made a quiet return to practice Wednesday.
“He has been released from jail,” said Vehikite’s attorney, per the Los Angeles Daily News. Vehikite was released earlier this week.
Vehikite pleaded no contest in May to two felony counts stemming from an accident involving him last July. The incident led to four felony counts this past February: leaving the scene of an accident; driving under the influence causing injury; driving with a .08% blood-alcohol level and causing injury; and identity theft.
He was dismissed from the team this spring by coach Lane Kiffin in the wake of his legal troubles.
Vehikite’s return meant walk-on Will Andrew did not have his scholarship renewed.