In a shocking turn of events, Melbourne Demons player Joel Smith has been slapped with a four-year and three-month ban for multiple cocaine-related offenses. The AFL announced the suspension on Friday, ending a year-long investigation by Sport Integrity Australia.

Smith, 27, tested positive for cocaine after a match against Hawthorn on August 20, 2023. But that’s not all. The AFL revealed four additional violations, including trafficking attempts and possession of cocaine between 2020 and 2022.

”This reflects the seriousness with which the AFL treats breaches of the Australian Football Anti-Doping Code,” said AFL CEO Andrew Dillon. He called it a “salutary lesson” for players using prohibited substances.

The ban effectively ends Smith’s AFL career. He can’t play in any World Anti-Doping Authority-compliant competition until January 9, 2028, when he’ll be almost 32.

Smith, son of former AFL player Shaun Smith, has been sidelined since October 9, 2023. His last game was a semi-final loss to Carlton in September 2023, where he kicked three goals.

The AFL stressed its zero-tolerance policy on illicit drugs. “The potential consequences are substantial,” Dillon warned, “including risks to health and safety and losing the privilege of playing professional football.”

Smith played 42 games over six seasons for Melbourne. He is currently out of contract with the Demons.