San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith has pleaded not guilty to charges relating to the illegal possession of an assault weapon.

Smith was charged with three felonies following an incident at a party in his home in June 2012.

It is alleged that shots were fired during the party, injuring two people, and that Smith was stabbed during an altercation.

The prosecutors say that detectives found five unregistered weapons in the 24-year-old's home, three of which are allegedly illegal to possess under California law.

Smith appeared in Santa Clara County Superior Court along with his lawyer and parents to deny the charges.

His next court appearance is scheduled for January 15, 2014.

Written by
Barney Corkhill