Burglary charges against Wallaby and Reds star Quade Cooper have been dropped by a Gold Coast court.

Cooper had been charged with burglary and there were allegations that he stole two laptops which could have de-railed his career.

However the 22 year old Cooper did not appear in Southport Magistrates Court where police offered no evidence against him and the charges were dropped.

The original incident was alleged to have taken place at a residence in Surfers Paradise on December the 6th shortly after Cooper had returned from touring with the Wallabies.

Cooper’s lawyers said the withdrawal of the charge followed completion of a justice mediation process with the complainants, which was conducted through the Department of Justice and Attorney-General.

Director of Chesterfield Lawyers, Dan McManus, said mediation was an accepted part of the Queensland justice system.

“It can only take place with the willing participation and consent of all parties, including the Queensland Police Service,” he told AAP.

“Justice mediation is a confidential process and the parties cannot elaborate on the content or details of the events nor the process which has led to this outcome.”

“Due to the confidentiality constraints of the justice mediation process, it is not appropriate to comment publicly further now that this matter has been disposed of, and no further comment can be offered.”
 
With proceedings against Cooper now removed from the courts, Australian Rugby Union has conducted an internal review.
 
It has taken into account negative publicity for the game and a failure by Cooper late last month to inform ARU of a further court appearance related to a traffic infringement.
 
Cooper has been fined $7500 and will remain involved in support and monitoring programs instituted at the start of the year.
 
“We’re pleased Quade has had this issue resolved and can now look to move forward,” said ARU High Performance Unit General Manager David Nucifora in a statement.
 
Cooper said: “I want to thank everyone who’s helped me during what has been a challenging time, particularly family and close friends.
 
“I’m glad I can now just concentrate on playing well for Australia.”
 
Cooper is currently training with the Wallabies and is expected to be named in the team to face the Springboks next weekend.

One Response to Burglary charges against “Surfer Dude” dropped

  • 1

    A big lesson in life for young Quade. His alleged stupid, drunken actions not just put his playing career in jeopardy, but lots more. While the outcome is deemed confidential, it has likely cost Cooper a bagful of money, paid to the owners of the laptop/s with good reason. Has justice been done and SEEN to be done? Not for us to question, I suppose, but would someone else in a similar position be granted the same second chance?
    Make the most of this opportunity Quade and don’t let us see your name mentioned in despatches again!!!!!!!

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