Jack de Belin’s family angry at police investigating NRL star’s case: ‘There must now be consequences’
- Jack de Belin’s family furious with police investigation
- Footy star’s family happy with action taken against officer
- Sexual assault charges against de Belin and Sinclair dropped
Jack de Belin’s family have slammed police who investigated the case against the football star and are glad action is already being taken against an officer involved.
A former police officer has been charged with perjury following an in-depth investigation into de Belin’s sexual assault case heard in the Wollongong District Court in February 2020.
Wollongong cop Detective Principal Shawn Adams has been charged over testimony he gave during de Belin’s sexual assault court proceedings.
The Wollongong trial ended in a hung jury, and at a second trial in Sydney a jury found de Belin and co-accused Callan Sinclair not guilty of one count of sexual assault against a female.
Jack de Belin’s parents and sister expressed their anger against the police and the media.
Jack de Belin was resigned by his NRL club, St. George Illawarra, during his two trials.
De Belin was found not guilty of one count of sexual assault by a Sydney court after a hung jury was unable to reach a verdict at the first trial in Wollongong.
“We believe this is a step in the right direction for Jack’s full vindication,” Cathy, David and his sister Erica de Belin wrote in a letter to the Sydney Morning Herald.
“We now hope that those responsible will finally be held accountable…and continue to be held accountable.”
The trial has taken a heavy toll on the family, but they are happy that action is being taken.
“We are of course disappointed and upset by the three years that have been taken away from Jack and our family throughout the process,” they wrote.
“This has been an incredibly upsetting and stressful time for us, but we are a close-knit family and we got through it together. We are so proud of Jack. He has a beautiful wife and children, for whom he is incredibly grateful .
“Our family remains closer than ever, as does the support network of our extended family, friends and community.
“There must now be consequences and repercussions for their actions.” As parents, we will continue to defend our children and their right to justice.
Sinclair’s parents, Terry and Gai, also wrote to the Herald to share their thoughts on the matter.
De Belin’s family spoke about the harmful consequences of the investigation on the family
“Our family welcomes the news that former detective Shawn Adams has been charged with perjury,” they wrote.
“We are relieved that some of what we have carried with us for many years is now being brought to light.
“We hope that the charges against the former officer will go to trial and that the accused will face the full force of the justice system.”
