The NRL has stood down Eels star Dylan Brown after he was charged with sexually touching a woman without consent.
The alleged offences don’t qualify Brown to be immediately stood down by the NRL under its No-Fault Stand Down Condition, but head office has used its discretion.
“The NRL has today advised the Parramatta Eels that Dylan Brown is subject to a No-Fault Stand Down Condition under the NRL Rules,” an NRL statement said.
“New South Wales Police charged Dylan Brown with several counts of sexually touch without consent following an incident at Double Bay on Saturday 3 June 2023.
“The NRL decision should in no way be interpreted as a view on the innocence or guilt of the player.”
The Eels had named Brown in the team to play Canterbury on Monday and will now need to find a replacement.
Brown appeared in court earlier today, where the matter was adjourned for three weeks.
Outside court, Brown’s Solicitor David Newham said CCTV footage does not support the notion that Brown approached the alleged victim on five separate occasions and touched her breasts.
In a statement, the Eels said: “The Parramatta Eels have been informed by the NRL that Dylan Brown has been stood down from team selection as part of the NRL’s no fault stand down policy regarding the incident this past weekend.
“Dylan will not be eligible for selection until he receives clearance from the NRL. Out of respect for the legal process now under way, the Club will not be making any further comment at this time.”
Troy Dodds is Parra News' Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.