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Broncos centre James Roberts in alleged drunken incident at Brisbane bar
Peter Badel, The Courier-Mail
August 17, 2016 2:02pm
Subscriber only
JAMES Roberts’ NRL career is in jeopardy after the Broncos centre has allegedly become embroiled in another drunken incident.
The NRL integrity unit has launched an investigation into allegations Roberts abused a female barmaid in a drunken rage at well-known Brisbane establishment The Normanby Hotel.
The Broncos are aware of the alleged alcohol-fuelled altercation and are in dialogue with the NRL integrity unit.
The alleged incident occurred around 9.20pm on Sunday, with Roberts reporting to Brisbane training the following morning just 12 hours later.
Well-placed sources claim a heavily-intoxicated Roberts was “in a mess” during a drinking session at the Normanby on Sunday, two days after Brisbane’s defeat of the Eels at Suncorp Stadium.
The NRL integrity unit has launched an investigation into the allegations against James Roberts. Pic: Annette Dew
It’s been alleged that when Roberts was refused service, he verbally abused the female staffer, prompting Normanby security guards to intervene.
Witnesses said a security guard applied a choker hold to restrain Roberts, who fell into unconsciousness. An ambulance was called to the venue as security guards attempted to resuscitate him.
It’s understood the Broncos centre woke up as the ambulance arrived and that he declined to be treated by paramedics. He then left the pub and hailed a cab.
Roberts trained with the Broncos this morning and is set to take his place in the centres against Canterbury tomorrow, although he may yet be stood down pending a full NRL investigation.
Broncos chief executive Paul White confirmed the club referred the matter to the NRL.
“The Broncos became aware of a rumour involving a player yesterday and reported it to the NRL’s Integrity Commission,” he said.
“No complaint has been made to the club by either the police or a member of the public.
“But as per protocol, the club passed the matter on to the integrity unit and will now work with them to ascertain the facts.”
Wayne Bennett controversially signed Roberts in December. Pic: Annette Dew
It is understood police were not called to the scene on Sunday, although Roberts could face NRL sanctions given his chequered history.
The 23-year-old, who recently became a father, has twice been sacked by NRL clubs.
In 2012, Roberts was shown the door by Souths for smashing a taxi window. Two years later, he was released by Penrith after another off-field misdemeanour.
Roberts was controversially signed by Broncos coach Wayne Bennett in December after his contract forgery saga at the Titans.
Brisbane’s welfare officer is aware of the incident and has been working with Roberts, whose form has been inconsistent this season.
