A third woman who was with five Sydney Swans players in a Melbourne hotel room on Monday morning is contemplating legal action. Her attorney has stated that her “entire world turned upside down”
The players involved—Isaac Heeney, Nick Blakey, Chad Warner, Riley Bice, and James Jordon—have been suspended for the remainder of the AFL season due to a breach of club protocols. This breach included consuming alcohol and bringing women to their hotel after a victory against Essendon in Melbourne.
On Saturday, Victoria police announced they are investigating an alleged sexual assault that reportedly took place early Monday at the Pullman Hotel, where the Sydney Swans were staying. Currently, none of the five players have been arrested or charged, and the specifics about the allegations and their ties to the team remain vague.
The Sydney Swans expressed their support for the police’s investigation in a statement on Saturday. The club clarified, “supports the action taken by Victoria police in releasing today’s statement regarding the investigation”
Legal Actions Considered
One woman present in the hotel room with the players has hired Slater and Gordon Lawyers and is considering filing a civil claim. Meanwhile, Carbone Lawyers is reportedly representing the two other women who were also in the room.
“The Sydney Swans categorically confirms that no member of staff is involved in the investigation,” said Jackson Pannam, a senior lawyer at Slater and Gordon, on Saturday.
Pannam mentioned that his client was the one who contacted Victoria police immediately after the alleged assault and is currently cooperating with investigators.
Any potential civil claim would be separate from any criminal actions that may emerge.
Pannam emphasized, “This includes being in the hotel room central to the police investigation. The club reiterates that no player has been interviewed by police at this stage.” He added, “Our client has had her entire world turned upside down and is now trying to navigate an incredibly traumatic experience,”
Trauma and Legal Proceedings
The attorney for the two other women in the hotel room with the Swans players informed Nine newspapers on Friday that they intend to initiate legal proceedings to seek damages for pain and suffering, psychological injury, and economic loss.
“Everyone deserves to be safe going about their life, at home, at work, and in public spaces without risk of being assaulted or harmed,” said Manny Carbone, a partner at Carbone Lawyers.
Carbone added, “We’re standing with our client to give her support at this difficult time, and to help her get the justice she deserves.”
In a joint statement released by the Swans on Wednesday evening, the five players expressed regret regarding the club’s disciplinary actions. “We are currently investigating the circumstances and preparing to commence legal proceedings against the club and potentially the individuals involved,” they stated. “Our clients are extremely traumatised and feel that their dignity and personal rights have been seriously violated by the events of Monday.”
