Man charged following alleged online racial abuse towards NBL player

Detectives from the Monash Crime Investigation Unit have arrested a man in relation to online racial abuse directed towards a National Basketball League player.

On Wednesday 2 July, police arrested and charged a 37-year-old Huntingdale man who allegedly sent racist messages to the player’s personal social media account.

These messages were allegedly sent following a match at John Cain Arena on Sunday 17 November 2024.

The man charged is not connected to any fans ejected during this game, following an altercation with players from the Adelaide 36ers.

Basketball Australia’s Integrity Unit referred this matter to Victoria Police for further investigation, which led to this arrest.

These messages were sent from an anonymous account, with officers working to identify the sender since the matter was referred to Victoria Police.

Victoria Police only investigates matters such as these when an incident is formally reported to police. In the absence of a police report, disciplinary actions are most often undertaken by the leagues and clubs involved.

The man has been charged with using a carriage service to menace, harass and/or offend. He has been bailed to appear at Moorabbin Magistrates’ Court on 15 August.

To report intimidating, harassing or racial abuse online, you can contact your local police station or in an emergency contact Triple Zero (000).

Media Unit

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