Legal representation for a third woman involved in the Sydney Swans sexual assault scandal is evaluating a potential civil lawsuit, according to Slater and Gordon senior lawyer Jackson Pannam. The client contacted police immediately following the alleged incident at the Pullman Hotel in East Melbourne during the early hours of Monday, August 17. Meanwhile, Victoria Police’s Sexual Crimes Squad continues an active investigation into the matter without having laid charges or made arrests.
Legal Representation and Potential Civil Action
Jackson Pannam confirmed that his firm has been engaged to represent a woman who reached out to authorities right after the alleged assault at the Pullman Hotel in East Melbourne on Monday, August 17. Mr. Pannam stated that his client’s world has been “turned upside down” by the event and that she is navigating a traumatic experience. According to the lawyer, the client continues to speak with police as part of their ongoing inquiries.
This development follows a separate announcement made on Friday by Carbone Lawyers, which stated it represents two other women believed to be adult entertainers involved in the incident and is looking into launching a civil claim. Several adult entertainers are understood to have joined players at the Pullman Hotel after being hired following the Swans’ victory against Essendon on Sunday night.
Did You Know? Five Sydney Swans players—Isaac Heeney, Nick Blakey, Chad Warner, Riley Bice, and James Jordon—were stood down by the club for breaching standards on drinking and staying out late after their win against Essendon in Melbourne.
Police and Club Responses
Victoria Police issued an update on Saturday from detectives in the Sexual Crimes Squad. The statement noted that the exact circumstances of the matter are still being established and that a number of people have been spoken to. Because the investigation remains active, police stated they will not comment further or release specifics regarding statements, interviews, or detective movements.
The Sydney Swans released a statement expressing support for the action taken by Victoria Police regarding the investigation update. The club also addressed commentary concerning other men potentially present in the hotel room. The Sydney Swans categorically confirmed that no member of staff was involved or present in the hotel room central to the police investigation, and reiterated that no player has been interviewed by police at this stage.
The timeline depends heavily on the Sexual Crimes Squad establishing the exact circumstances surrounding the early hours of August 17.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is representing the third woman involved in the incident?
Slater and Gordon senior lawyer Jackson Pannam is representing the third woman.
Which players have been stood down by the Sydney Swans?
Isaac Heeney, Nick Blakey, Chad Warner, Riley Bice, and James Jordon have been stood down for breaching club standards on drinking and staying out late.
Have any arrests been made by police?
No, the police investigation is still underway, and no arrests have been made or charges laid.
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