Blackmail attempt charge over Fuifui Moimoi
Article from:
June 12, 2009 04:15pm
A WOMAN has been charged with attempting to blackmail Parramatta rugby league star Fuifui Moimoi following a sexual liaison three years ago.
Crystal Lum, of Lalor Park, was charged at Blacktown Police Station earlier today with three counts of blackmail and bailed to appear in court on July 8.
Police allege Ms Lum recently demanded $15,000 from Moimoi and threatened to go to the media with claims she was improperly treated, after another player joined them for sex.
She also allegedly demanded $10,000 from the Parramatta Eels and made a similar threat to the Wests Tigers, although no amount was indicated.
The second player was Moimoi's then housemate, Wests Tiger Taniela Tuiaki.
In statements to police, both men denied there was any impropriety, or that Tuiaki had taken part in the encounter.
Police yesterday arrested the woman and, after interviewing her at Blacktown, charged her with three offences.
Moimoi confirmed to police the relationship had taken place but denied anybody else was present.
It is alleged the brief sexual relationship occurred in 2006.
The game has never been more vulnerable given recent events, with Manly and Australian star Brett Stewart currently facing sexual assault charges, and recent allegations made against the Cronulla club.
NRL chief executive David Gallop believed today's events were a timely reminder to players and the public.
"Our players carry the burden of a high responsibility but this episode is a remionder that they can be unfairly targetted as well, and that they are not always in the wrong,'' he said.
http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,25625732-953,00.html
