Sydney Swans alleged sexual assault case: Police yet to file brief of evidence amid investigation into Swans players

There is a growing belief among AFL and legal circles that it may become difficult to charge the four Sydney Swans players under investigation for alleged sexual assault, following the events of the incident at the Pullman Hotel in early August, according to Nine reporter Izabella Staskowski.

Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, Nick Blakey, James Jordon and Riley Bice were all suspended by Sydney for the remainder of the 2026 season for breaching club protocols, with Victoria Police opening an investigation into what occurred in the aftermath.

It’s been a tumultuous time for Sydney.  Nine

Bice was later cleared of wrongdoing and is being treated as a potential witness.

Multiple women present during the night have alleged acts of sexual assault took place to Victoria Police and have engaged lawyers.

Nine.com.au is not suggesting the Swans players were stood down for acts of sexual assault, simply for breaching club protocols.

“Victoria Police saying just last night that this investigation is still ongoing. We know that the brief of evidence has not been handed down as of yet and that is expected by the end of October,” Staskowski told Nine’s Today.

“But there is growing chatter amongst AFL circles and legal circles that it could be quite difficult to prosecute the four players and lay charges of sexual assault against them.

“That is based on the evidence that we have so far.

“There is also discussion about this secret recording that was obtained by Victoria Police in September of inside the Pullman Hotel. It is possible that might not be admissible in court.

“Furthermore, it’s also expected that there could be letters submitted to the court suggesting that a prima facie case does not exist and that charges should not be laid.

“The four players have always maintained their innocence.”

When asked for comment on Wednesday morning, Victoria Police told nine.com.au “we have no further updates at this stage”.

All five players returned to the Swans for exit interviews in late September, following the conclusion of the club’s season.

During that return, they reportedly expressed their belief that they have not committed any criminal wrongdoing.

They are all expected to be back training with the club in November, though Blakey has reportedly expressed a desire to be traded. Sydney has denied this is the case.