Neighbors have reportedly told media to leave the parental home of Sydney Swans player Isaac Heeney, emphasizing the family's standing as 'good, church-going Baptists.' Heeney, along with four other Sydney Swans players, has been suspended for the remainder of the season for violating club standards during a night out on August 17.
These sanctions are separate from a sexual assault investigation by Victoria Police. The investigation stems from an incident at a Melbourne hotel where women, booked as topless waitresses, allege that sexual conduct occurred beyond what was agreed upon. A third woman has also approached police with a sexual assault allegation. Heeney's alleged actions are reportedly a focus of the investigation, and he spoke with police last week. No charges have been laid against any of the players, and none have been formally interviewed.
Heeney was not present at his Maroubra unit upon returning to Sydney, and his fiancée was observed in Queensland without her engagement ring. He was also absent from his parents' property near Newcastle, with local residents telling media they had not seen him there in an extended period. Some residents expressed concern over media intrusion and the use of their private road, with one stating, 'We are a private community and we don't want strangers driving up here.' Another neighbor, when informed of the allegations, cited privacy issues. A different resident described the Heeney family as 'good people' who attend church.
The Sydney Swans suspended Chad Warner, Riley Bice, Nick Blakey, and James Jordon for the remainder of the season after determining they breached club standards, which included staying out late, drinking, and bringing women back to their hotel. The club has stated that the players deny wrongdoing.
Victoria Police confirmed that Sex Crimes Squad detectives are investigating a report of a sexual assault at the Pullman East Melbourne hotel. A woman represented by law firm Slater & Gordon has alleged she was the victim of multiple sexual assaults at the hotel. This new allegation follows claims from two other women, represented by Carbone Lawyers, regarding sexual conduct exceeding what was agreed upon when they were hired as topless waitresses. A lawyer for Slater & Gordon stated that the firm has been asked to explore a potential civil claim for his client and that the new allegation has been reported to police.
Team captain Callum Mills issued an apology on behalf of the playing group to the club's AFLW players, female staff, and women in the wider community. He stated the team takes the allegations seriously and hopes the women involved are receiving support. Coach Dean Cox also expressed disappointment in the players' actions and affirmed the seriousness with which the club is handling the matter.