NRL player Brandon Smith is set to contest drug and betting charges during his initial court appearance at Southport Magistrates Court on the Gold Coast. The 29-year-old Kiwi hooker plans to plead not guilty to allegations concerning the supply of a dangerous drug and the inappropriate use or disclosure of inside knowledge for betting purposes.
Smith is represented by prominent Sydney lawyer Paul McGirr, who has stated that Brandon intends to vigorously defend himself against the charges. McGirr confirmed that Smith’s agent solicitor will appear on his behalf in court and will request a brief of evidence from the Queensland police to understand the basis of the accusations.
The charges against Smith arose from a police investigation that began when officers seized his mobile phone at Gold Coast Airport. This incident occurred as he arrived in Queensland ahead of a match on August 10 against the Gold Coast Titans. Authorities questioned Smith at Coolangatta Airport but released him without laying any charges, allowing him to participate in the game.
Following the incident, Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy mentioned that Smith had cooperated with police during their inquiry and subsequently played well in the match. However, on August 25, police announced that charges had indeed been brought against him, and shortly after, the NRL permitted Smith to play in the final regular-season game for South Sydney, deciding against an immediate suspension.
The investigation also involved text messages between Smith and Sydney Roosters player Victor Radley, although Radley has not been accused of any wrongdoing and has not been charged with any offence.
As Brandon Smith prepares to enter his plea, the case has drawn significant attention from fans and media alike, and the outcome will undoubtedly influence his career and reputation in professional rugby league.