Dean Laidley’s stalking and drug charges to be heard in court but AFL great won’t attend
Former football great Dean Laidley was given a pass not to attend court this morning for his stalking and drug charges - here’s why.
Police & Courts
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Fallen football star Dean Laidley’s drug and stalking charges have been adjourned until December 14.
Laidley, 53, did not have to attend today with the case dealt with administratively due to measures introduced to limit attendance numbers at court amid COVID-19.
The former North Melbourne coach is facing a series of charges including possessing ice, stalking, and committing an indictable offence while on bail.
His arrest in St Kilda in May made headlines after photos were leaked of him wearing a dress, long blonde wig and makeup during his police interview.
Police allege they found 0.43 grams of methamphetamine hidden in his bra.
Appearing in court in May when he successfully applied to be released on bail, police revealed their case against him and how he allegedly “bombarded” a woman with almost 50 phone calls in one day.
He also threatened to run her over in his car, the court heard.
Between April 3 and May 4, Laidley allegedly called and texted the victim more than 100 times.
He is also accused of carrying out “reconnaissance” on her address, taking pictures of her apartment building and car and requesting CCTV from her body corporate to “keep her under surveillance”.
The court heard Laidley’s mental health had deteriorated as he struggled with gender dysmorphia, substance abuse and thoughts of self harm.
The AFL community has thrown its support behind Laidley, who played 151 AFL games from 1987-97, since his arrest.
Melbourne’s courts are facing unprecedented delays due to the coronavirus pandemic, with only urgent matters being heard in a bid to clear packed courtrooms.
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