He was just months away from returning to the West Coast Eagles, but now Willie Rioli will front court in the Northern Territory tomorrow charged with possessing cannabis in a public place.
A search warrant was carried out and 25 grams of cannabis was allegedly located in the man’s pants.
It’s understood Rioli was issued with a Notice to Appear in Darwin Local Court on May 12, charged with possessing schedule two dangerous drug less than trafficable quantity.
Rioli was due to recommence training with the West Coast Eagles on June 20 ahead of his suspension from the AFL being lifted on August 20.
The AFL anti-doping tribunal found Rioli tampered with a drug test twice on August 20 and September 5, 2019 – where he substituted his urine sample – the latter with a sports drink.
A secondary test then returning a positive result for cannabis – a banned match day substance.
In a statement, the club said: “The West Coast Eagles Football Club is aware that Willie Rioli will face court tomorrow in Darwin.
“As this is a legal matter before the courts the club will not make any official statement at this time.
“The club will support Willie through this process.”
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