Karmichael Hunt suspended and fined by Queensland Reds over cocaine conviction
Code-hopper barred from playing for six weeks and fined A$30,000
High-profile rugby star Karmichael Hunt was banned for six weeks and fined A$30,000 (HK$182,000) by the Queensland Reds following a drug conviction on Thursday in a case that rocked Australian sport.
The 28-year-old, a former rugby league international who switched to Super Rugby's Queensland Reds from Australian Rules team Gold Coast Suns this year, pleaded guilty to four charges of cocaine possession. The conviction was not recorded.
As well as his club fine, he was stripped of the Reds' vice-captaincy and ordered to pay A$2,500 by magistrates on Queensland's Gold Coast.
Your offences will become well known and be a disappointment to your legion of fans. Hopefully, you will send a message that it is possible to learn from mistakes
"Your offences will become well known and be a disappointment to your legion of fans. Hopefully, you will send a message that it is possible to learn from mistakes," magistrate Catherine Pirie said.
Hunt was originally accused of supplying the drug, but this was downgraded to possession, with police alleging he arranged to pick up cocaine on four occasions from September 1 to October 3 last year. At the time, he was employed by the Suns.
"It's been a difficult couple of weeks for me and my family," Hunt said outside the Southport Magistrates Court. "We're looking forward to putting this process behind us."
Hunt, who had been suspended by the Reds and barred from training prior to the court appearance, received further punishment by his club.