Alleged text messages between Victor Radley and Brandon Smith are set to become pivotal evidence as the Rabbitohs hooker faces court on drug charges this Thursday. The Southport Magistrates Court on the Gold Coast will hear Smith’s plea, expected to be not guilty, against charges of unlawfully supplying a dangerous drug and using inside knowledge for betting.
Smith’s phone was seized by police on August 9 at Gold Coast Airport. The police statement of facts, obtained by Code Sports, outlines alleged messages between Smith and Radley, former NRL teammates. In these messages, Radley purportedly requested Smith’s assistance in acquiring an “8 ball” of cocaine during a golf weekend on the Sunshine Coast.
Alleged Text Exchanges and Their Implications
While no charges have been filed against Radley, and there is no suggestion he procured or consumed illegal drugs, the alleged messages paint a troubling picture. Smith, reportedly in Sydney at the time, is accused of facilitating a connection for Radley to obtain cocaine on June 7.
The text exchange allegedly began on May 30, with Radley texting Smith, “G tee up your cousin in sunny coast for me. Little short ball,” to which Smith allegedly responded affirmatively. Subsequent messages suggest coordination for the drug acquisition, culminating in Smith allegedly providing Radley with a contact number for a Queensland drug dealer.
“Just call him that’s xxxxx from Goldie number. He’s got people in sunny coast he said to call him and he will give you number,” Smith is alleged to have sent Radley.
On June 6, Radley allegedly confirmed the timing, and police claim that the following day, a brief call between Radley and Smith was made to facilitate contact with the alleged dealer.
Roosters’ Internal Reactions and Public Perception
The revelation of these alleged texts has reportedly caused significant unrest within the Sydney Roosters. According to senior rugby league journalist Andrew Webster, Roosters’ chairman Nick Politis was “furious” upon learning of Radley’s involvement in the investigation. Webster described Radley as “absolutely devastated” and “very emotional” when discussing the situation with club members.
Paul Crawley of The Daily Telegraph highlighted the broader implications for the Roosters, especially given Politis’s previously stated “zero tolerance” policy on drug use. Crawley emphasized that while there is no proof of wrongdoing by Radley, the text messages have sparked significant discourse within the NRL community.
“The text message exchange is what people around the game are talking about. They are talking about the fact Nick Politis has previously said he has a zero tolerance policy and will get rid of anyone at the club who has been found to be involved with drugs,” Crawley noted.
Legal Standpoints and NRL’s Position
Smith’s defense, led by prominent Sydney lawyer Paul McGirr, maintains that there is “no allegation” of Smith’s direct involvement with the drugs or any financial transactions. McGirr emphasized the narrative nature of the fact sheet, cautioning against drawing premature conclusions.
“I will not confirm or deny what is in a fact sheet, as it is only a narrative at this stage and is not actual evidence,” McGirr stated.
NRL CEO Andrew Abdo has refrained from making public comments, citing the ongoing legal proceedings. Abdo assured that the NRL is closely monitoring the situation and will consider any potential breaches of NRL rules once the case concludes.
Both the Roosters and Rabbitohs have chosen not to comment publicly on the matter at this time.
Looking Ahead: Potential Consequences and Industry Impact
The unfolding legal drama involving Smith and Radley raises significant questions about the NRL’s handling of player conduct and the potential repercussions for the Roosters. The case underscores the challenges sports organizations face in maintaining integrity while managing the personal conduct of high-profile athletes.
As the court proceedings continue, the spotlight remains on how the NRL and the Roosters will navigate the allegations and their implications for the sport’s image. The outcome of Smith’s trial could set a precedent for how similar cases are addressed in the future, potentially influencing policy and disciplinary measures within the league.
The sporting community awaits the court’s decision and the subsequent actions by the NRL, which will undoubtedly shape the narrative surrounding player accountability and the league’s commitment to upholding its standards.
