Former NRL star Chris Sandow is one for the limelight.
Sandow, who played over 150 NRL games for the South Sydney Rabbitohs and Parramatta Eels between 2008 and 2015 as well as enjoying a spell at the Warrington Wolves in Super League, has been in custody for the past two weeks.
The 33-year-old has been charged with serious assault of a police officer causing bodily harm, serious assault of a police officer or person acting in aid of police officer, two counts of obstructing police, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, two counts of driving without a licence, and evasion – according to The Courier Mail – and has had his bail application denied for a second time this week.
The argument for bail, by defence lawyer Patrick O’Donnell, was on the grounds that Sandow needed medical attention to treat potential concussion issues stemming from his NRL career.
“He’s an exceptionally talented footballer … he had a distinguished career,” O’Donnell said.
“He is concerned that with the head knocks he’s had from football over the years, that he could have some problems now … He instructs that he wants to go as soon as possible to speak to a neurosurgeon.”
Acting Magistrate Rob Turra was surprised at the link between the two, replying: “that may be the case, but how do you draw a connection between that and the offending behaviour?”
Turra wasn’t the only one to raise questions with the line of argument given by Sandow’s lawyer.
Police prosecutor Sergeant Paul Caldwell said “none of what my friend has raised, with respect, addresses the underlying issue of why he was refused bail in the first place”.
“There’s nothing that’s changed between then and now … it’s just attempting to have another crack at bail.”
Turra noted Sandow had written a letter saying he wanted to re-engage in his culture, give back to the community and be a role model for children.
But he determined “none of (O’Donnell’s arguments) are sufficient for me to find there’s a material change in circumstances”.
It’s disappointing news for the former electric halfback as he prepares to turn his life around post-rugby league.
However, the law is there to be respected and Sandow has allegedly fallen short in that regard.