NFL player charged with beating sister's boyfriend

Sean Lee Smith, a 30-year-old National Football League defensive player, could face up to seven years in prison if he is convicted on all three felony counts against him, which include allegations of causing great bodily injury. Smith is accused of attacking his sister's boyfriend, Christopher Woods, on the morning of July 4 in the Los Angeles suburb of Pasadena, according to a criminal complaint. The court documents do not say what prompted the alleged violence.

Reuters could not determine on Thursday evening if Smith had retained an attorney.

"We are looking into the matter to understand the facts," NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said. Smith was expected to make an initial court appearance on Sept. 29. (Reporting by Dan Whitcomb; Editing by Leslie Adler)