NRL Star Faces Court for $5K Damage at Pokies
A 20-year-old Canberra Raiders player, Chevy Stewart, recently faced legal consequences after causing significant damage at a Sydney gaming venue. Stewart was involved in an incident at Northies Cronulla Hotel, where his actions led to nearly $5,000 in repair costs. He pleaded guilty to one count of destroying or damaging property in Sutherland Local Court.
Incident Details
The incident occurred on September 26, shortly before 10 PM. Stewart, while at a gaming machine with friends, experienced a loss. In response, he splashed a small amount of his drink onto the machine’s screen. This seemingly minor act caused a short circuit, plunging the entire gaming room into darkness.
Legal Proceedings
During the court proceedings, Magistrate Jillian Kiely described Stewart’s action as an “immature reaction” to losing. The court documents revealed that he remained unaware of the damage he had caused until staff discovered the issue shortly after he left the area.
Consequences and Reaction
- Stewart expressed immediate remorse for his actions.
- He offered to pay for the damages when approached by security and police.
- Prior to sentencing, he compensated the venue for the incident.
Magistrate Kiely emphasized that there was no intent to damage the machine, noting that Stewart is a young man of good character who had never faced legal trouble before. Support from family and Canberra Raiders staff was evident during the hearing.
Future Implications
Considering the circumstances, Ms. Kiely opted for a 12-month conditional release order, which stipulates that Stewart must avoid any further legal issues during this period. The magistrate warned that such reckless behavior could jeopardize his career.
Overall, this incident serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of impulsive actions, especially in high-pressure situations. Chevy Stewart’s case highlights the importance of reflecting on decisions, particularly in the public eye.
