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http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/a...es-over-his-head/story-fni5f986-1226974201201North Melbourne forward Majak Daw give all-clear to play on despite rape charges over his head
GRANT BAKER HERALD SUN JULY 01, 2014 6:39PM
THE AFL has stood North Melbourne player Majak Daw down from his role as a multicultural ambassador, but has not yet made a decision on whether to suspend or withdraw his pay for that role.
Daw has been charged with three counts of rape, dating back to an incident in 2007.
Daw is one of 10 AFL multicultural ambassadors, for which he is modestly paid.
The AFL industry’s ad hoc approach to dealing with players facing criminal charges continued yesterday, with the AFL and the AFL Players’ Association supporting the Kangaroos’ decision to allow Daw to remain eligible to play.
The AFL and AFLPA maintain that cases involving police charges must be judged on individual circumstances, and continue to resist pressure to adopt a more structured approach.
In the most recent similar case, former St Kilda player Stephen Milne was stood down by the Saints in June last year after being charged with rape over an incident in 2004.
Milne took a leave of absence which lasted three weeks.
The Players’ Association was initially concerned the Saints’ decision had set a “dangerous precedent”, but later accepted that it was appropriate for Milne to be sidelined for a time.
Former AFL CEO Andrew Demetriou said of the Milne case that it would be “unjust” if Milne was permanently denied the opportunity to play, but said: “it’s appropriate to have a pause, out of respect for everyone involved in the situation, particularly the woman involved”.
In the Daw case, the AFL has agreed that: “Given the specific circumstances of the case, the AFL has determined that the player remains available for selection by his club.”
“However, we will monitor the case and reserve the right to take action under our rules if deemed appropriate,” the league said in a statement.
North Melbourne indicated that the presumption of innocence fundamental to the Australian legal system was the key factor in its decision to allow him to play.
“The club respects the integrity of the legal process and asks the right to privacy
of all involved be respected,” the club said.
As usual the Victorians will act like their shit doesn't stink, hypocrites.