Richmond’s Marlion Pickett is in custody in Perth after being charged over a series of alleged burglaries.
The 31-year-old dual premiership player was arrested in the aftermath of the Tigers’ game against Fremantle at Optus Stadium on Saturday night.
He is facing allegations of four counts of aggravated burglary, and three counts of stealing and criminal damages, targeting commercial properties across last December and January.
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Foxfooty.com.au understands Pickett will face Perth Magistrates Court early tomorrow afternoon to apply for bail.
Pickett’s manager Anthony Van Der Wielen told News Corp the player “has a strong intent to defend himself against the charges”.
“Due to the ongoing legal nature of the proceedings, Marlion, or myself will not be able to provide any further details, comment or clarification about the matter at this stage.
“We understand and respect the public’s interest in this matter, but we also implore all to respect the presumption of innocence until proven otherwise, and to allow the legal proceedings to follow their due course without prejudice.”
The Tigers confirmed the news and stated “the club will continue to support Marlion and his family while these matters are dealt with”.
Pickett was famously picked up in the 2019 mid-season draft by Richmond, and debuted in the 2019 Grand Final win over GWS.
After being released from a jail term Pickett began his football career and after impressing in the WAFL over a half-decade, was picked up by the Tigers with the 13th pick in the 2019 mid-season rookie draft.
He only began full contact training in July and impressed in the Tigers’ VFL premiership campaign, earning him a call-up for the AFL Grand Final to replace injured midfielder Jack Graham.
Pickett was the sixth player in VFL-AFL history to debut in a Grand Final, and the first since 1952, then becoming the first player to win a premiership on debut since 1926. He finished third in the Norm Smith Medal.
Tigers pull off tough away win in Perth | 02:41
RICHMOND STATEMENT
Richmond Football Club player Marlion Pickett has been remanded in custody on alleged burglary charges and will attend Perth Magistrates Court tomorrow for a bail hearing.
The alleged offences occurred in December 2022 and January 2023.
The Club will continue to support Marlion and his family while these matters are dealt with.
As this matter is now before the courts, the Club will not be making any further comment.
