Hawthorn Players Arrested in Arizona: Details Emerge on Off-Season Incident
Hawthorn Football Club players Dylan Moore and Connor Macdonald were arrested in November of last year in Phoenix, Arizona, on charges of trespassing. The incident, which occurred during an off-season trip, resulted in the players spending a night in custody. As a consequence, Dylan Moore was removed from his role as the club's vice-captain, and both players faced club sanctions, including fines and participation in education and community service programs.
Incident Details
Dylan Moore and Connor Macdonald were arrested in November during an overseas trip to Phoenix, Arizona. The incident involved Moore climbing onto a scissor lift after consuming alcohol, which led to police intervention and charges of trespassing. Both players spent one night in jail following their arrest.
Initially, a charge related to drug paraphernalia against Moore was also made but was subsequently dismissed. Police documents, as cited in reports, indicated Moore was allegedly found with a crystalline substance and a rolled-up $100 note. However, the drug paraphernalia charge did not proceed. Trespassing remains the sole charge against them.
Legal Proceedings and Status
Both players have pending court dates in the United States related to the trespassing charge. Dylan Moore's next court appearance is scheduled for July, and Connor Macdonald's for August. Hawthorn's Executive General Manager of Football, Rob McCartney, stated that the incident was not made public sooner due to ongoing legal reasons.
Club's Response and Sanctions
Following the incident, Hawthorn Football Club implemented several disciplinary measures:
- Vice-Captaincy: Dylan Moore was removed from his position as vice-captain. James Sicily and Jai Newcombe currently serve as the club's captains.
- Financial Sanctions: Both players received fines from the club.
- Education and Community Service: Moore completed a diversion program, which included 16 hours of education on alcohol and relationships. Both players are scheduled to perform community service.
- AFL Involvement: The Australian Football League (AFL) has indicated it will not impose further sanctions on the players.
Statements from Players and Club Officials
Dylan Moore acknowledged the incident, stating he had consumed alcohol and made a mistake by getting on the scissor lift. He described the event as a mistake and expressed regret, acknowledging he had disappointed club leaders and Connor Macdonald. Moore also conveyed the stress experienced while away from Australia and the club.
Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell expressed initial disappointment regarding the arrests but noted that both players accepted responsibility for their conduct and have acted in accordance with club expectations and standards since the event. Mitchell also stated that most of the legal proceedings are complete, with the remaining matters considered minor and not expected to impact the players' performance.
Rob McCartney commended Moore and Macdonald, stating they had been "outstanding citizens" throughout their time with the club, apart from this incident. He highlighted their acceptance of consequences, expressions of remorse, and willingness to re-educate.
Current Playing Status
Dylan Moore and Connor Macdonald have participated in Hawthorn's recent matches, including the Opening Round defeat to Greater Western Sydney and a subsequent win against Essendon. They are scheduled to continue playing in upcoming games.