Former NRLW star and NSW Blues captain Maddie Studdon could potentially reverse her initial pleas of not guilty after facing serious domestic violence-related stalking allegations, a Sydney court has been told. The ex-St George Illawarra halfback, who represented the Jillaroos between 2014 and 2017, appeared at Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday following her arrest and overnight remand on January 14.
Allegations of Fixation Following Relationship Breakdown
Court documents reveal that Studdon allegedly became "fixated" after her three-year relationship ended, particularly following her ex-partner's subsequent relationship with a man. Detectives presented evidence suggesting a pattern of concerning behaviour that has led to multiple serious charges.
Detailed Allegations of Harassment
According to police allegations presented to the court, Studdon contacted her former partner 29 times using a private number and sent messages through various channels including emails and bank transfers. One particularly disturbing message read: "Check msgs, enjoy the d***," while another stated: "Can stop being suss and own up. You make m e [sic] go off cause what you're doing."
Further allegations include that Studdon approached her ex-girlfriend outside her home, attempted to enter her vehicle, and punched the side of the car while the victim was calling emergency services. Police also applied for an apprehended domestic violence order after Studdon allegedly made a "throat-slitting" gesture toward her former partner.
Legal Proceedings and Potential Plea Change
Studdon faces two serious charges: stalking/intimidation with the intention of causing fear or physical harm (domestic violence related) and using a carriage service to menace, harass or offend. These allegations follow a previous domestic violence conviction from 2015, adding context to the current proceedings.
During Wednesday's hearing, Studdon's lawyer David Newham requested an adjournment to consider their legal position. Magistrate Karen Stafford subsequently set the matter down for a possible plea traversal, indicating that Studdon's legal team might be considering changing her initial not guilty pleas.
Bail Conditions and Career Implications
Studdon was granted bail last week after forfeiting $5,000, but with strict conditions including a complete ban from accessing any form of social media. The case has already impacted her rugby league career prospects significantly.
Her previous lawyer Javid Faiz had told the court that Studdon "had a possible contract" lined up with the North Queensland NRLW side. However, the Cowboys have since issued a definitive statement clarifying that while Studdon attended their open trial in December, "at no point following the trial has there been any discussion, internally or externally, regarding a contract for the player with our club, nor will there be in the future."
The case continues to develop as legal representatives prepare for potential plea changes and further court proceedings in the coming weeks.
