Australian Rugby Union Star Rocky Elsom Sentenced to 5 Years in Jail by French Court
Rugby union enthusiasts were shocked to learn that former Wallabies star Rocky Elsom has been sentenced to five years in prison by a French court. Elsom, who earned 75 caps for Australia during his illustrious career, was convicted of embezzling funds while serving as the president of French club Racing Club Narbonne nearly a decade ago.
An international arrest warrant was issued for Elsom after he was sentenced in absentia for misuse of corporate assets. The 41-year-old former back-rower was also ordered to pay $1.1 million in compensation.
The Narbonne Criminal Court found him guilty of forgery, use of forgery, and misuse of corporate assets during his time at the club between 2015 and 2016.
Elsom has vehemently denied the allegations and has filed an opposition to the court’s charges. A hearing has been scheduled for November 15. According to reports, a 17-page charge sheet outlines the case against the former rugby union star, including claims that he had a payment from Heineken sent to a company in his own name and made advance payments to several players. He is also accused of backdating a doctor’s contract.
The court documents allege that Elsom made multiple payments while the club was facing serious financial difficulties, claiming the payments were made “in order to benefit his circle of friends and serve his own interests.” However, Elsom has maintained that the club was in better shape during the latter stages of his tenure, and he has been backed by a former executive who described his financial stewardship as a “remarkable success.”
The case has generated significant controversy within the rugby union community, with Elsom asserting that there are no criminal offenses and that the claims against him are a “fragile civil case.” As the legal proceedings continue, rugby fans eagerly await the outcome of this high-profile case involving a respected Australian rugby union hero.
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