Cowboys forward Luciano Leilua has been stood down under the NRL’s No-Fault policy after the 26-year-old was charged over alleged domestic violence offences.
The NRL said Leilua was charged with “common assault (domestic violence related) and intentionally or recklessly destroy/damage property (domestic violence related)” after an incident with a 26-year-old woman.
Leilua is now not permitted to participate in the NRL or representative competitions – including the Rugby League World Cup – after “allegations the player acted violently in relation to a female”.
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“The NRL has advised the North Queensland Cowboys that Luciano Leilua is subject to a No-Fault Stand Down condition under the NRL Rules,” the NRL statement read.
“The decision should in no way be interpreted as a view on the innocence or guilt of the player.
“The discretionary No-Fault Stand Down condition has been applied in this instance as the criminal charges involve allegations that the player has acted violently in relation to a female.”
Officers went to the home in Harrington Park, NSW and arrested Leilua on Monday.
He was taken to Camden police station where charges were laid.
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“The NRL have today invoked their no-fault stand down policy for North Queensland Cowboys player Luciano Leilua,” the Cowboys said in a statement.
“Accordingly, Leilua will now be stood down from all club duties.
“The Cowboys will continue to provide support to all parties involved and will await the completion of the court process before making any further comment.”
A NSW Police spokeswoman said police had gone to the home after receiving a call.
“Police were called to a home on Alexandra Crescent at Harrington Park about 1pm today (Monday 3 October 2022) after receiving reports about an alleged domestic violence incident,” the spokeswoman said.
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“Officers from Narellan Police Area Command attended and were told a 26-year-old woman had allegedly been assaulted by a man known to her.
“It’s further alleged the man smashed her phone after assaulting her.
“A 26-year-old man was arrested at the home and taken to Camden Police Station where he was charged with common assault (DV); damage or destroy property (DV).
“He’s been given bail to appear at Campbelltown Local Court on 11 October 2022.”
Leilua began his three year $2 million contract with the Cowboys early after a mid-season move from the Tigers.
He will now be unable to represent Samoa in this month’s World Cup, beginning on October 15.
