Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, 34, has joined National League club Braintree Town on a free transfer following a short period with AFC Totton. The former Arsenal player's move came five months after his release from prison, where he served 10 months for drug smuggling. Braintree chairman Lee Harding stated to BBC Essex that he feels the forward has fulfilled his obligation to society. Manager Steve Pitt revealed that he had been interested in signing Emmanuel-Thomas while the player was still in custody. Pitt explained that after speaking with Jimmy Ball at AFC Totton a few weeks ago and learning the player was seeking to relocate, he decided to evaluate him. The manager also said that he and his assistant, Karl Duguid, believe Emmanuel-Thomas can help their effort to remain in the National League.