Last Friday, on ESPN2's "First Take" program, Stephen A. Smith made some remarks towards the situation of Ray Rice. Rice was supended two games by the NFL for striking his girlfriend and dragging her out of an elevator. 

Stephen A. Smith said while men "have no business putting your hands on a woman," he continued saying, "Let's make sure we don't do anything to provoke wrong actions." He then implied that women should "do what we can to prevent the situation from happening."

These comments leave room for conclusions from the public that Smith was implying fault on the woman. On Monday Smith apologized, saying "This was not my intent. It was not what I was trying to say." He finished by saying, "Yet the failure to clearly articulate something different lies squarely on my shoulders."

Tuesday afternoon ESPN handed Smith a one-week suspension. He will return to ESPN next Wednesday and resume his appearances on "First Take" and various radio programs.

ESPN President John Skipper said, "'Stephen has called what took place 'the most egregious mistake' of his career. I believe his apology was sincere and that he and we have learned from what we've collectively experienced." He finished by saying, "I'm confident we will all move forward with a greater sense of enlightenment and perspective as the lasting impact of these last few days. I want to thank all those whose thoughts have contributed along the way."

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About the author
Mitchell Evans
Mitchell Evans is an editor who covers League of Legends, Counter Strike, and many others.