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Staggs cops ban, $20k fine for pub conduct

3 minute read

The NRL has come down hard on Kotoni Staggs, fining and suspending the Brisbane centre over an incident at a pub in April.

KOTONI STAGGS.
KOTONI STAGGS. Picture: Matt Roberts/Getty Images

Kotoni Staggs has copped a two-match suspension and a $20,000 fine from the NRL for a drunken incident at a Brisbane pub in April.

Sidelined with an ACL injury since the end of last season, the Brisbane centre is finally fit to return to action for the Broncos.

However, he'll have to wait at least another fortnight with the NRL on Tuesday banning him until at least round 16.

His return will hinge on the approval of NRL boss Andrew Abdo, who previously fined Staggs $10,000 for using a homophobic slur towards a patron at a pub in Dubbo in February.

The latest incident has caused Staggs and the Broncos more trouble.

The 22-year-old was not charged by police but was accused of making unwanted advances towards a woman at a Brisbane pub over the Easter long weekend.

After an investigation, including sourcing CCTV vision, the NRL's integrity unit found Staggs engaged in 'disreputable conduct'.

Due to his rehabilitation program with the Broncos he was also not permitted to be drinking alcohol.

"Staggs, who is now medically fit to play, must continue to complete education and personal rehabilitation programs over the next two weeks, to the satisfaction of the NRL, before being approved to return to the competition," an NRL statement read.

"Staggs has also been fined $20,000, of which a portion will be used to fund his rehabilitation and education programs.

"The sanction was handed down after Staggs engaged in disreputable conduct at a public venue in April this year.

"Staggs has accepted the proposed sanction within the breach notice and has also met with the NRL."

In a Brisbane club statement, Staggs promised to mend his behaviour.

"It's really important for me to work hard at being a role model for all those kids who look up to me as an NRL player," he said.

"I understand that I have to set a better example and think about the consequences of my actions for myself, my family, my club and for the game of rugby league.

"I've made mistakes but I'm committed to making sure that my behaviour is something I can be proud of in the future."

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