A professional soccer player from Colombia has vehemently denied allegations of sexual misconduct, including rape, assault, and intimidation, in a court appearance.
The athlete, who was a key player for a prominent Australian soccer team, entered a not guilty plea in response to the charges read out in court. Prosecutors allege that the player committed these crimes on a specific date in March 2024, in a coastal town in New South Wales.
The player faces multiple charges, including one count of aggravated sexual assault, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. Additional charges include assault and intimidation, with an alternative charge of sexual assault without consent.
The player, who required the assistance of a Spanish-speaking interpreter in court, will remain on bail until the trial, which is scheduled to take place in March 2025 – exactly one year after the alleged incident.
Following the player’s arrest in May, the soccer team took swift action, suspending the player from all team activities. The team emphasized that this decision was made without prejudice, pending the outcome of the legal proceedings.
The case will return to court for a readiness hearing in February 2025. Support services are available for those affected by sexual violence, including 1800 RESPECT and the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service.
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