An incident involving a blow-up doll is part of the AFL investigation into the Giants’ end-of-season muck-up party.
Two sources familiar with the line of questioning in the investigation, who spoke on the strict condition of anonymity, confirmed a blow-up doll was involved in a skit performed by players at the event.
A different source with knowledge of the investigation, and not permitted to speak publicly, confirmed a reference to American rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs had also caused offence.
Up to eight players are facing suspension.
The sources said there was CCTV footage from the venue.
The Giants players involved have been told of their penalties as the league heads into the final stages of its investigation, but they have up to 24 hours to respond.
The Giants have completed their own investigation into the events that allegedly took place at a dress-up party held in the days after the Giants’ elimination from the premiership race. The offending skits happened after staff and coaches had departed the function.
Giants players have told club figures they are shocked that what happened at a private function has become an issue that has escalated to the point where some could miss games, according to a source who has spoken to Giants staff. The probe was sparked by an anonymous complaint to the Giants and the AFL.
Combs, 54, is facing lawsuits from more than 100 alleged victims following his arrest over sex-trafficking allegations last month. Combs has pleaded not guilty to racketeering conspiracy and sex-trafficking charges alleging he coerced and abused women for years with help from a network of associates and employees while silencing victims through blackmail and violence, including kidnapping, arson and physical beatings.
In a statement on Tuesday night, the AFL told this masthead: “The AFL and the GWS Giants have been undertaking an investigation into the Giants players’ post-season event, which is in its final stages. An update will be provided by the AFL once the investigation has concluded.”
A number of Giants players are overseas.
More to come