Rugby league’s Integrity Unit is investigating three weekend incidents involving star players.
Manly prop Richie Fa’aoso was charged on Sunday with damaging property, not stopping a vehicle when directed to do so and mid-range drink driving after an alleged domestic incident in Macquarie Fields. Fa’aoso was also served an apprehended violence order that bars him from contacting his wife.
Manly officials issued a statement reading: “The family has asked us to make it clear that this is not a domestic violence matter and that they be afforded some privacy at this time.”
Police told Campbelltown Local Court the 108-kilogram prop smashed furniture, broke a window and kicked a door off its hinges before driving away while under the influence. A breath test returned a reading of 0.126.
The Bulldogs’ new recruit Reni Maitua was charged with assaulting a taxi driver on Monday morning and suspended from all club duties. Police said Maitua was travelling from Darlinghurst to Daceyville when he became abusive. He is to appear at Waverley Court on January 7.
Maitua tweeted a full apology yesterday: “I have no excuses for my poor behaviour and will accept any punishment handed to me from the powers (that) be. I was charged with common assault for pushing the gentleman’s arm, by no means is that acceptable but certainly didn’t strike anyone.”
The Integrity Unit is also investigating an incident in Sydney’s Martin Place on Saturday morning involving the Newcastle Knights forward Russell Packer. A 22-year-old Summer Hill man found unconscious after a fight was taken to St Vincent’s hospital. Police have spoken with Packer but no charges have been laid. – Jack Novak
Top photo of Richie Fa’aoso making a run from NAPARAZZI’s Flickr photostream.
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