Former Adelaide Crows player Jared Petrenko has domestic violence charge dropped
A former Adelaide Crows star has walked free from court after a domestic violence assault charge against him was dropped. But the reason why is shrouded in secrecy.
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A domestic violence charge against a former Adelaide Crows star has been dropped, but the reason will remain shrouded in secrecy.
Jared Petrenko, 32, appeared in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Friday where a prosecutor withdrew the charge.
But the refusal to allow media to the courtroom, which was also hearing family violence and pre-trial arguments, means the reason the charge was withdrawn will never be known.
Mr Petrenko, of Mile End, was charged in May with aggravated assault of a former partner.
Speaking outside court on Friday, his lawyer Nick Murphy said the allegations had been difficult for the veteran footballer.
“This has been an extremely trying time for Mr Petrenko and his family and friends, and he thanks everyone for the support that they have given him,” he said.
“My client welcomes the decision of the prosecution to withdraw the criminal charges.
“He is looking forward to moving on to the next point of his life.”
Mr Murphy did not say why the charges had been dropped.
Mr Petrenko faced court in late October where media were again blocked from entering the courtroom.
He next faced court in mid-November, again before a closed court.
On Friday, prosecutors tendered no evidence to the allegation, and the charge was formally withdrawn.
It was previously alleged the assault had taken place at Mr Petrenko’s Mile End home on April 19.
Amid the legal battle, Mr Petrenko penned a lucrative amateur footballing contract to play in Queensland for Port Douglas.
In 2022 he was a key part of amateur Adelaide Football League club Broadview’s division two premiership victory.
Before that he started for Woodville West Torrens in the SANFL after being delisted by the Crows in 2014 after 76 games and 50 goals.
In 2018 Mr Petrenko and then partner Jess Dover appeared on top-rating renovation House Rules.
The pair had a child together before splitting in 2021.
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