Jdb case

[getsmarty]

Paul McGregor responds to NRL policy change
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Fri 1 Mar 2019, 06:21 PM

Dragons coach Paul McGregor has made the following statement, in response to the NRL's decision to change the policy and stand down Jack de Belin.

"The Commission governs the game, and no doubt they have the greater good of the game at heart.

"In saying that though, Jack is the first NRL player in history to be denied the presumption of innocence without a witness or video evidence. He was charged in December so it's disappointing this decision has been made so close to the season commencing.

"There is no doubt that this has impacted Jack and his family. Jack maintains his innocence and draws strength from this. He also recognises that he will have his opportunity to defend himself in court.

"The playing group is unified and understandably have empathy for their mate. We are a very tight knit group who support each other and will continue to monitor Jack's wellbeing and welfare.

"We are awaiting further details and information from the NRL [in terms of salary cap relief] and as yet, there is no definitive answer. I'll leave it to Ian (Millward) and Brian (Johnston) to follow that up with the NRL and I'll continue to focus my attention on my current playing group.

"You don't replace a player like Jack. We will look from within first and foremost. The probability is that Tyson (Frizell) will move to lock and Luciano (Leilua) and Jacob (Host) will play edge back-row which will be a great opportunity for both players.

"Overall [this situation] is a distraction out of the players' control. We will focus on what we are good at and play to our strengths, and that is starting the season off on a positive note."


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/03/01/paul-mcgregor-responds-to-nrl-policy-change/

 

[FlameThrower]

I’m over all of these self righteous commentators, ex players, current players, coaches all being very high and mighty.
Cooper Cronk latest to have his 5 cents.
Until the court hands down the decision nobody should be throwing rocks.

 

[FlameThrower]

Paul McGregor responds to NRL policy change
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Fri 1 Mar 2019, 06:21 PM

Dragons coach Paul McGregor has made the following statement, in response to the NRL's decision to change the policy and stand down Jack de Belin.

"The Commission governs the game, and no doubt they have the greater good of the game at heart.

"In saying that though, Jack is the first NRL player in history to be denied the presumption of innocence without a witness or video evidence. He was charged in December so it's disappointing this decision has been made so close to the season commencing.

"There is no doubt that this has impacted Jack and his family. Jack maintains his innocence and draws strength from this. He also recognises that he will have his opportunity to defend himself in court.

"The playing group is unified and understandably have empathy for their mate. We are a very tight knit group who support each other and will continue to monitor Jack's wellbeing and welfare.

"We are awaiting further details and information from the NRL [in terms of salary cap relief] and as yet, there is no definitive answer. I'll leave it to Ian (Millward) and Brian (Johnston) to follow that up with the NRL and I'll continue to focus my attention on my current playing group.

"You don't replace a player like Jack. We will look from within first and foremost. The probability is that Tyson (Frizell) will move to lock and Luciano (Leilua) and Jacob (Host) will play edge back-row which will be a great opportunity for both players.

"Overall [this situation] is a distraction out of the players' control. We will focus on what we are good at and play to our strengths, and that is starting the season off on a positive note."


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/03/01/paul-mcgregor-responds-to-nrl-policy-change/

Well said ..

 

[Lewish33]

yes thats consistent "in this case: but its still up to their discretion below 11 years.

any charge of violence should be automatic not up to discretion

The big test will see what happens if there's a GI type involved or a team that has Uncle Nick in charge.

 

[Crush]

I’m over all of these self righteous commentators, ex players, current players, coaches all being very high and mighty.
Cooper Cronk latest to have his 5 cents.
Until the court hands down the decision nobody should be throwing rocks.

Agreed. LOL at Mal Meninga coming out and putting his 2 bob in. Pot calling the kettle black.

 

[Gardenia]

The big test will see what happens if there's a GI type involved or a team that has Uncle Nick in charge.

Yes well there is a new video leaked apparently which all would have heard about . Not from an uncle Nick team . I have no idea who it is though

 

[Gardenia]

got it on whatsapp

I don’t care for a link but I’d like to know who why the secrecy no
One else got that

 

[AyiosYiorgos]

I don’t care for a link but I’d like to know who why the secrecy no
One else got that

English please...

 

[getsmarty]

Report claims Jack de Belin will launch legal challenge to NRL policy change
A report claims the NRL’s player behaviour crisis has only just begun with guinea pig case Jack de Belin reportedly “likely” to fight his historic suspension.

news.com.auMarch 1, 20197:09am

Dragons star Jack de Belin is reportedly about to commence legal action to fight the NRL’s player behaviour policy change that allowed CEO Todd Greenberg on Thursday to stand him down from playing.

De Belin will be banned from playing in the NRL until he faces court again on sexual assault charges on April 17 after the NRL announced new, tougher sanctions for player misbehaviour on Thursday.

The NSW State of Origin star has maintained his innocence and released a statement on Thursday afternoon to again express his intent to fight the charges against him.

Greenberg and ARLC chairman Peter Beattie declared on Thursday they believe the policy will help bring an end to the disastrous NRL off-seasons riddled with criminal charges and anti-social behaviour actions being brought against players.

However, it emerged later on Thursday that the crisis may just be beginning for the NRL with de Belin now expected to take the game to court.

The Australian’s senior rugby league reporter, Brent Read, told Triple M’s Rush Hour with Mark Geyer it is now “more likely than not” that de Belin will seek to overturn the policy change that allows officials to stand down players, despite their remaining a presumption of innocence for all players before their court cases are finalised.

Under the new rules, players facing charges which carry a maximum jail term of 11 years or more would be stood down under a no-fault policy which Beattie stressed didn’t apply a presumption of guilt.

St George's Jack de Belin makes a break during the South Sydney v St. George-Illawarra NRL Semi Final at ANZ Stadium, Homebush. Picture: Brett CostelloSource:News Corp Australia

NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg also has the discretion to stand down players facing other serious charges, including violence against women and children. However, the rules immediately met resistance from the players’ union, which said it would back any member who wanted to consider their legal options.

De Belin himself will lead the case against the new rules, according to Read.

“I think they’ll challenge it. That could drag on as well,” Read said.

“This is far from over. That’s the disturbing thing. We thought it might end today, but it’s certainly not going to be over today or tomorrow.”

The NSW State of Origin lock broke his silence via a club media release for the first time since pleading not guilty to aggravated sexual assault.

“Rugby league has always been a big part of my life, I love the game,” de Belin said.

“I am innocent and will vigorously defend the charge against me.”

De Belin will still be afforded full pay and be able to train with the Dragons. The NRL’s changes come after an off-season which has included 17 off-field scandals at a rate of almost one every 10 days.

The game’s historic attempt to stamp out player behaviour that allegedly damages the sport’s reputation has opened up a can of worms.

Paul McGirr, from McGirr Lawyers, earlier this week told The Daily Telegraph pre-emptive action against de Belin has the potential divert “the criminal justice system”.

He said de Belin could explore a civil case on the grounds of loss of income.

The Sydney Morning Herald reports St George Illawarra legal representatives are also preparing to hit the ARLC with an injunction, preventing them from carrying out the order to stand de Belin down from duties.

De Belin’s legal representatives have also issued Beattie with legal letters, citing their concern around the damaging nature of some comments he is alleged to have made regarding De Belin’s case.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JULY 29: Jack de Belin of the Dragons exchanges words with Cooper Cronk of the Roosters during the round 20 NRL match between the Sydney Roosters and the St George Illawarra Dragons at Allianz Stadium on July 29, 2018 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)Source:Getty Images

Beattie said the game’s reputation had to be rebuilt, and denied claims by the Rugby League Players’ Association (RLPA) the rules could cause prejudice. “I do (believe this can change the culture),” Beattie said.

“Because this is the first time we’ve actually got a rule with teeth.

“It’s a rule that can bring about cultural change. It’s a rule that says to everyone in the game that you have got to behave.

“At the end of it all, we’ve got to have standards and values. We’ve sent out a message.” Beattie claimed the changes had been supported by 15 of the NRL’s 16 club chairs, with Melbourne vocal on Thursday afternoon in their praise.

But the Dragons were still considering their position late on Thursday.

“We understand and support the commission’s desire to improve the standards of player behaviour and propagate the game,” CEO Brian Johnston said.

“This is a very complex and difficult issue that impacts many stakeholders.

“To date, we have been guided by the NRL rules and code of conduct, in addition to advice suggesting any action taken by the club could interfere with the judicial process.

“Given the change today, we need time to digest this information and consider the implications for our club.”

— with AAP


https://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/r...e/news-story/b2c7569f8055e5f78e4d35ed4ea451e0

 

[possm]

Report claims Jack de Belin will launch legal challenge to NRL policy change
A report claims the NRL’s player behaviour crisis has only just begun with guinea pig case Jack de Belin reportedly “likely” to fight his historic suspension.

news.com.auMarch 1, 20197:09am

Dragons star Jack de Belin is reportedly about to commence legal action to fight the NRL’s player behaviour policy change that allowed CEO Todd Greenberg on Thursday to stand him down from playing.

De Belin will be banned from playing in the NRL until he faces court again on sexual assault charges on April 17 after the NRL announced new, tougher sanctions for player misbehaviour on Thursday.

The NSW State of Origin star has maintained his innocence and released a statement on Thursday afternoon to again express his intent to fight the charges against him.

Greenberg and ARLC chairman Peter Beattie declared on Thursday they believe the policy will help bring an end to the disastrous NRL off-seasons riddled with criminal charges and anti-social behaviour actions being brought against players.

However, it emerged later on Thursday that the crisis may just be beginning for the NRL with de Belin now expected to take the game to court.

The Australian’s senior rugby league reporter, Brent Read, told Triple M’s Rush Hour with Mark Geyer it is now “more likely than not” that de Belin will seek to overturn the policy change that allows officials to stand down players, despite their remaining a presumption of innocence for all players before their court cases are finalised.

Under the new rules, players facing charges which carry a maximum jail term of 11 years or more would be stood down under a no-fault policy which Beattie stressed didn’t apply a presumption of guilt.

St George's Jack de Belin makes a break during the South Sydney v St. George-Illawarra NRL Semi Final at ANZ Stadium, Homebush. Picture: Brett CostelloSource:News Corp Australia

NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg also has the discretion to stand down players facing other serious charges, including violence against women and children. However, the rules immediately met resistance from the players’ union, which said it would back any member who wanted to consider their legal options.

De Belin himself will lead the case against the new rules, according to Read.

“I think they’ll challenge it. That could drag on as well,” Read said.

“This is far from over. That’s the disturbing thing. We thought it might end today, but it’s certainly not going to be over today or tomorrow.”

The NSW State of Origin lock broke his silence via a club media release for the first time since pleading not guilty to aggravated sexual assault.

“Rugby league has always been a big part of my life, I love the game,” de Belin said.

“I am innocent and will vigorously defend the charge against me.”

De Belin will still be afforded full pay and be able to train with the Dragons. The NRL’s changes come after an off-season which has included 17 off-field scandals at a rate of almost one every 10 days.

The game’s historic attempt to stamp out player behaviour that allegedly damages the sport’s reputation has opened up a can of worms.

Paul McGirr, from McGirr Lawyers, earlier this week told The Daily Telegraph pre-emptive action against de Belin has the potential divert “the criminal justice system”.

He said de Belin could explore a civil case on the grounds of loss of income.

The Sydney Morning Herald reports St George Illawarra legal representatives are also preparing to hit the ARLC with an injunction, preventing them from carrying out the order to stand de Belin down from duties.

De Belin’s legal representatives have also issued Beattie with legal letters, citing their concern around the damaging nature of some comments he is alleged to have made regarding De Belin’s case.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JULY 29: Jack de Belin of the Dragons exchanges words with Cooper Cronk of the Roosters during the round 20 NRL match between the Sydney Roosters and the St George Illawarra Dragons at Allianz Stadium on July 29, 2018 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)Source:Getty Images

Beattie said the game’s reputation had to be rebuilt, and denied claims by the Rugby League Players’ Association (RLPA) the rules could cause prejudice. “I do (believe this can change the culture),” Beattie said.

“Because this is the first time we’ve actually got a rule with teeth.

“It’s a rule that can bring about cultural change. It’s a rule that says to everyone in the game that you have got to behave.

“At the end of it all, we’ve got to have standards and values. We’ve sent out a message.” Beattie claimed the changes had been supported by 15 of the NRL’s 16 club chairs, with Melbourne vocal on Thursday afternoon in their praise.

But the Dragons were still considering their position late on Thursday.

“We understand and support the commission’s desire to improve the standards of player behaviour and propagate the game,” CEO Brian Johnston said.

“This is a very complex and difficult issue that impacts many stakeholders.

“To date, we have been guided by the NRL rules and code of conduct, in addition to advice suggesting any action taken by the club could interfere with the judicial process.

“Given the change today, we need time to digest this information and consider the implications for our club.”

— with AAP


https://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/r...e/news-story/b2c7569f8055e5f78e4d35ed4ea451e0

Where does Mark Coyne stand on this new policy? Beatie has said that all members of the ARLC are in support.

For me it is not a fair policy and if desired to be put it place, should never have been retrospective. The ARLC is just taking the easy way out and the cheapest option for themselves. I'm looking forward to De Belin pressing his case and hope he has plenty of support.

 

[BLM01]

Where does Mark Coyne stand on this new policy? Beatie has said that all members of the ARLC are in support.

For me it is not a fair policy and if desired to be put it place, should never have been retrospective. The ARLC is just taking the easy way out and the cheapest option for themselves. I'm looking forward to De Belin pressing his case and hope he has plenty of support.

Coyne was against it and said it publicly but has been turned around miraculously in the past 2 weeks and also said that publicly in Thursday's press conference. He is on board..as if he can say anything else.

 

[RedV Resurgence]

Before I start, I don't known what transpired that night and as best as I can determine the NRL and its commission have not been presented with any information on the matter; so they are no better informed than anyone on this forum. So lets consider potential ramifications.

So what happens if the charge is withdrawn before a court date?

What happens to De Belin? Think game fitness, SOO payments, potential sponsorships etc.
Can he come back and play for the dragons if they have gone out and purchased another player?
Will the dragons need to make a decision on which player to keep?
what happens if the accuser is found to be not credible?

The right course of action should have been to follow exactly what would happen to any citizen in the same situation. The NRL should have made its position clear, as they have, that violence towards women, children or other men is not tolerated. Further, the NRL should have respected both parties situation and awaited for the legal system to gather the facts and make decision based on available facts.

Here the NRL has rushed to be seen to be seen in the right light and protecting its image.

If this situation plays out, then Beattie and his commissioners along with Greenburg need to take full accountability and resign.

I have no confidence in the NRL and the Commission.

 

[possm]

Before I start, I don't known what transpired that night and as best as I can determine the NRL and its commission have not been presented with any information on the matter; so they are no better informed than anyone on this forum. So lets consider potential ramifications.

So what happens if the charge is withdrawn before a court date?

What happens to De Belin? Think game fitness, SOO payments, potential sponsorships etc.
Can he come back and play for the dragons if they have gone out and purchased another player?
Will the dragons need to make a decision on which player to keep?
what happens if the accuser is found to be not credible?

The right course of action should have been to follow exactly what would happen to any citizen in the same situation. The NRL should have made its position clear, as they have, that violence towards women, children or other men is not tolerated. Further, the NRL should have respected both parties situation and awaited for the legal system to gather the facts and make decision based on available facts.

Here the NRL has rushed to be seen to be seen in the right light and protecting its image.

If this situation plays out, then Beattie and his commissioners along with Greenburg need to take full accountability and resign.

I have no confidence in the NRL and the Commission.

So Greenburg and Beattie should be asked that question by the media; 'Will you resign your position if De Belin is found not to be guilty of the charge'? If the answer is NO then Clubs, fans and NRL players should all protest and call for the resignation of these two officials.

 

[dragon thomo]

The two biggest mistake the NRL have made in the last couple of years are recruiting Beattie and Greenberg. Look what Beattie did to Queensland and the Commonwealth Games.

 

[The Damo]

Before I start, I don't known what transpired that night and as best as I can determine the NRL and its commission have not been presented with any information on the matter; so they are no better informed than anyone on this forum. So lets consider potential ramifications.

So what happens if the charge is withdrawn before a court date?

What happens to De Belin? Think game fitness, SOO payments, potential sponsorships etc.
Can he come back and play for the dragons if they have gone out and purchased another player?
Will the dragons need to make a decision on which player to keep?
what happens if the accuser is found to be not credible?

The right course of action should have been to follow exactly what would happen to any citizen in the same situation. The NRL should have made its position clear, as they have, that violence towards women, children or other men is not tolerated. Further, the NRL should have respected both parties situation and awaited for the legal system to gather the facts and make decision based on available facts.

Here the NRL has rushed to be seen to be seen in the right light and protecting its image.

If this situation plays out, then Beattie and his commissioners along with Greenburg need to take full accountability and resign.

I have no confidence in the NRL and the Commission.

Couple of things here;
- the accuser has already been found credible, that’s why charges were laid, and why the case has continued past the first step
- if charges are withdrawn he’ll be able to play again, all the other stuff around cap and players will get negotiated. They haven’t done it before so they’ve gotta figure out how that will work.
- most members of the public would also get stood down on full pay if they were in any sort of public role and faced similar charges. It’s a really common step organisations take to protect themselves.

 

[RedV Resurgence]

Couple of things here;
- the accuser has already been found credible, that’s why charges were laid, and why the case has continued past the first step
- if charges are withdrawn he’ll be able to play again, all the other stuff around cap and players will get negotiated. They haven’t done it before so they’ve gotta figure out how that will work.
- most members of the public would also get stood down on full pay if they were in any sort of public role and faced similar charges. It’s a really common step organisations take to protect themselves.

Hi The Damo:
I understand what your saying, best I clarify:

When I said credible, I was referring to a cross examination. The nature of the situation means that Police and prosecutors don't like to stop actions if the accuser wants to proceed.

The logistics of bringing back Jack if charges are dropped become difficult once the dragons sign a replacement and get more complicated as time goes on.

I disagree on most member of the public are stood down comment. To be honest in only a small percentage of situations does that actually occur.

 

[The Damo]

Hi The Damo:
I understand what your saying, best I clarify:

When I said credible, I was referring to a cross examination. The nature of the situation means that Police and prosecutors don't like to stop actions if the accuser wants to proceed.

The logistics of bringing back Jack if charges are dropped become difficult once the dragons sign a replacement and get more complicated as time goes on.

I disagree on most member of the public are stood down comment. To be honest in only a small percentage of situations does that actually occur.

Cheers man, i’ll Clarify too - for people getting stood down I specified public roles, and that is common. Sure it wouldn’t happen to joe from accounts, but that’s not analogous.

The police and prosecutor have already decided that the allegations are credible, and that there’s a reasonable chance of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. There’s every chance they won’t prove it of course. But, This part ‘the nature of the situation...’ is simply not true. The evidence says the opposite, less than 1 in 5 sexual assault allegations made to police make it to court.

I’m not having a go at you at all, but I think it’s an important point that lots of people have heard the wrong information on. If the DPP didn’t think there was credible evidence and testimony we wouldn’t be having this conversation.

 

[possm]

Hi The Damo:
I understand what your saying, best I clarify:

When I said credible, I was referring to a cross examination. The nature of the situation means that Police and prosecutors don't like to stop actions if the accuser wants to proceed.

The logistics of bringing back Jack if charges are dropped become difficult once the dragons sign a replacement and get more complicated as time goes on.

I disagree on most member of the public are stood down comment. To be honest in only a small percentage of situations does that actually occur.

Any difficulties are the responsibility of the ARLC and the NRL. SGI had no say in the indefinite suspension of JDB. SGI has the right to try and re-balance their side after losing a key player weeks out from the start of the season. So as I have said many times, the ARLC and the NRL have made their decision and should take full responsibility for it. They should compensate SGI with salary and salary cap while at the same time pay JDB and be responsible for any compensation that may result from their actions.

 

[Obi Wan]

Was hoping they could settle it out of court but it's been brought to my attention that's not possible.

 

[Meapro Ham]

With the knee jerk reactionary rule change, it will just encourage clubs to settle out of court with any accuser and that person will be rewarded with a big pay day even if the allegations are false so they withdraw the charges. The rule change may undermine the course of natural justice and encourage and reward anyone who falsely makes a serious accusation to police where charges are layed. I was hoping Jack would have the opportunity to prove his innocence in the court of law but now I'm just hoping they can hurry up and come to an agreement to settle out of court so I can see him treated like he's innocent which he is presumed to be right now.

It’s a criminal charge. Can’t just settle out of court, doesn’t work like that. Nor can the victim drop charges. It’s up to the DPP not the victim to decide that.