Welfare of Hawks star Jonathon Patton ‘remains priority’ as lewd behaviour allegations probed

Hawthorn Football Club is working “working with the AFL” in relation to allegations against Jonathon Patton.

Hawthorn’s Jonathon Patton is in hospital. Picture: AAP

Hawthorn Football Club is continuing to “work with the AFL” regarding the behaviour of star forward Jonathan Patton who is accused of sending lewd messages to women.

“Jonathon’s welfare remains a priority and we continue to provide him with the support he requires,” the club’s chief executive officer Justin Reeves said in message to its members on Monday.

“The club continues to work with the AFL in relation to the allegations made against Jonathon Patton and will provide a further update when appropriate.”

Patton has been stood down from the club amid an investigation into the allegations.

Last week he was admitted to hospital to “assist in the management of his ongoing mental health”, Connors Sports Management told Seven News.

Jonathon Patton has been stood down from the club amid an investigation into allegations he sent lewd messages to women. Picture: AAP

Patton was absent from the Hawks’ pre-season training on Monday.

It is believed he has been dealing with mental health ­issues for some time.

Several women have made allegations that the 2011 No.1 draft pick sent them lewd messages, photos and videos.

Hawks chief executive Justin Reeves addressed the matter in a letter to members posted on the club’s website, in which he confirmed the AFL’s direct involvement in the investigation.

“As soon as the club was made aware of the matter we addressed it directly with Jonathon and made it clear that behaviour of this nature would not be tolerated,” he said.

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