Monday, September 25, 2023

Australia Rugby Star Karmichael Hunt Avoids Drug Conviction

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Laura Niklas
Laura Niklas
Laura Niklas is a talented journalist with a passion for uncovering under-reported stories. With over seven years of experience, she has made a name for herself in the industry with her in-depth reporting and unique perspective. Laura holds a degree in journalism from the University of Salzburg and has worked for top Austrian newspapers. Her work has been recognized with several awards and she is dedicated to delivering thought-provoking journalism to her readers. Known for her determination and integrity, Laura is a valuable member of the Austrian journalism community.

Australian rugby union player Karmichael Hunt has avoided a conviction after a cocaine possession charge against him was dropped.

Karmichael Hunt

Hunt was arrested in Brisbane in December on the cocaine charge and a second count of possessing the prescription drug Xanax.

On Monday, the Wallabies player was fined a total of A$600 (£340; $475) over the second change and for failing to turn up to a police station.

His playing future remains unclear.

Prosecutors dropped the charge of cocaine possession due to a lack of evidence, local media reported.

Hunt’s lawyer, Adam Magill, argued in court that a conviction would have limited the rugby player’s movements in Australia and overseas.

The lawyer said Hunt had taken a tablet of Xanax from his partner to offset stress and to help him sleep.

He had failed to report to police for fingerprinting within seven days of being charged because he wanted to avoid media representatives outside his house, Mr Magill said.

Hunt was stood down by his team, Queensland Reds, immediately after the charges were laid on 30 December. The team and Rugby Australia did not immediately comment on Monday.

A former rugby league and Australian Rules football player, Hunt played six Tests for the Wallabies last year after making his debut against Fiji in June.

In 2015, Hunt received a six-week suspension and a A$30,000 ($23,400; £17,300) fine for cocaine possession.

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