One of the criminal charges, forcible touching, laid against Collingwood AFL player Jordan De Goey has been dropped by New York prosecutors. But the 25-year-old is still facing a charge of assault when he is next due in court in the United States on 8 December.
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has dropped a charge of forcible touching – grabbing private areas outside of clothing without permission – of a 35-year-old female. But the Magpies midfield-forward is still alleged by prosecutors to have punched and kicked a 37-year-old male.
Collingwood’s Jordan De Goey stood down after being charged with forcible touching and assault in USRead more
Police initially said the man was a friend of a woman who De Goey and a friend of his were alleged to have interacted with during a Halloween-themed party at PHD Rooftop Lounge on 30 October.
Police claimed De Goey’s friend struck the man in the face with a glass. De Goey spent several hours in a holding cell, before being released from custody after pleading not guilty to all charges.
Collingwood acted swiftly to the charges being laid and on Sunday stood down De Goey from club duties indefinitely.
De Goey travelled to the US during the off-season to undergo an intensive fitness program in California as he attempted to capitalise on an outstanding end to the 2021 season.
He was only able to leave Australia under a permit due to his sponsorship and work arrangements with Monster Energy.
It is unclear if De Goey will be allowed to return to Australia before his next court date, but Covid-19 restrictions could make that difficult.
