Police are urging Melbourne fans who bought premiership memorabilia from Ricky Nixon to assist an investigation into the former player manager, who is being probed both by the AFL and police over allegations he sold memorabilia with forged signatures after the Demons’ grand final win last month.
As revealed by The Age on Monday night, the league and club were alerted to concerns surrounding Nixon’s sale of commemorative footballs which purported to be signed by Demons premiership players.
Ricky Nixon in 2012.Credit: Penny Stephens
Nixon sold the items on Facebook for $575 plus $20 postage, claiming that at least some proceeds would go to charity.
However, The Age has spoken to five Melbourne supporters who purchased the balls and have concerns over the legitimacy of the memorabilia.
Victoria Police confirmed in a statement on Wednesday morning that they were looking into the matter.
“Victoria Police is investigating the sale of football merchandise purporting to be signed by football players,” a police spokesperson said.
“The deception was reported to police earlier this month and the investigation remains ongoing.
“Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or file a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.”
It was noted by one fan that forward Charlie Spargo had signed his name with a No.8, despite wearing No.9. The Age has seen correspondence from Spargo to a fan on Twitter in which the young Demon says he did not sign the balls.
Another fan, spoken to on Tuesday, said they believed there had also been inconsistencies with Max Gawn’s autograph. The ruckman wears No.11, but a fan said his ball had Gawn’s number signed with a 13.
Charlie Spargo.Credit: Getty
Melbourne fan Brent Aitken said he had raised his concerns with Victoria Police after being alerted to concerns around the product. He says he was told not to open the package he received.
“I haven’t opened it because police have asked me to keep it in the box because they want to open it at the station ... and sent it away for DNA and fingerprints,” said Aitken.
Aitken - who said he was talking with a group of around 20 affected Demons fans - also claims that when repeatedly challenged about the legitimacy of the Sherrins, Nixon used abusive language.
The AFL and Demons urged fans to purchase memorabilia from official providers.
Former player agent Nixon has not specifically addressed the allegations to The Age despite being repeatedly contacted in recent days.
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