Kangaroos player Tarryn Thomas to fight charge of threatening to distribute revenge porn

Troubled Roos midfielder Tarryn Thomas has faced court days after being stood down from the club indefinitely, after failing to make “sufficient progress” in behavioural training.

Tarryn Thomas and supporters leave the Broadmeadows Magistrates' Court. Picture: David Geraghty

Troubled North Melbourne midfielder Tarryn Thomas is planning to fight the allegation he threatened to distribute revenge porn.

The AFL young gun fronted the Broadmeadows Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday after he was charged with a single count of threatening to distribute an intimate image in January.

The 22-year-old was charged with the offence following a police investigation spanning three months.

His defence lawyer, Sally Vardy, told the court the matter would be proceeding to a contest mention in July.

But no details of the alleged crime were aired during the first mention, with Magistrate Abigail Burchill also refusing to release the charge sheet to the media.

“It would misrepresent the charge … by releasing (it) now,” she said.

“I am of the belief it will inaccurately depict what is ultimately pleaded guilty to or not guilty to.”

Thomas has been stood down from the Roos indefinitely. Picture: Getty Images

Thomas, flanked by Ms Vardy and supporters, refused to comment when leaving the suburban court.

His court appearance comes only days after the 2018 draft pick was stood down from the North Melbourne Football Club indefinitely, after he failed to make “sufficient progress” in behavioural training.

New allegations against Thomas were revealed last week, with the club and AFL Integrity Unit investigating whether they are linked to previous complaints regarding alleged threatening and intimidating behaviour towards women.

While stood down, he will not be considered for selection for the Kangaroos at any level and will remain away from the club.

In a statement on Friday morning, the club said Thomas – who had been stood down previously when allegations were first revealed by the Herald Sun early this year – needed to address issues of “accountability, remorse and behaviour change”.

North Melbourne football manager Todd Viney said Thomas still had some “work to do” to meet the club’s expectations.

While Thomas is stood down he will not be considered for selection at the Kangaroos. Picture: David Geraghty

“This is a serious concern for the game. The main part we want to get right is respect and responsibility to women,” Viney said.

“We have seen some improvement around the understanding and accountability around the things which have been put in place, but unfortunately it is still not quite at the level (required).

“Second to that, we are aware of the new allegations. This is a serious concern to us again.”

North Melbourne could face a payout of up to $1m if it cuts ties with the player.

If the matter does not resolve at the next court date, it could be listed for a contest hearing where witnesses may be cross-examined before a ruling is made by the magistrate.

He will next front court on July 18.