Soccer referee David Brooke arrested in Canberra for alleged act of indecency on teenager
The governing body for soccer in Australia has commented on the arrest of a senior referee who allegedly assaulted a teen prior to a football tournament.
Canberra Star
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Football Australia have responded after a senior soccer referee was arrested for allegedly committing an indecent act against a teenager.
New Zealand resident David Brooke faced the ACT Magistrates Court on Thursday after being charged with one count of indecency against a young person.
Police will allege the incident occurred this month in front of several witnesses.
Officers arrested the 66-year-old at his accommodation on Wednesday night.
Brooke was represented by defence lawyer Georgia Le Couteur in court on Thursday, who said his bail application was not opposed.
Prosecutor David Leggett tendered several bail conditions to the court with magistrate Robert Cook granting Brooke bail. His matter was adjourned to July 31.
The 66-year-old, dressed in a soccer jacket, black track pants and Adidas shoes, hid his face from the media as he left court.
A Football Australia spokesman said the organisation was aware of the incident in the lead up to the tournament in Canberra.
“The safety and welfare of our football community is our priority, where Football Australia has mechanisms in place to provide thorough support to our members, as has been the case over the course of this week,” he said.
“With this matter still before the courts, it is not appropriate to provide any further comment on this incident at this time.”
Police urge any victims of indecent or sexual assault to report these criminal activities to police by attending a police station or calling 131 444.
Anyone who can assist police is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website.
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