Rugby league legend Steve Renouf has narrowly avoided jail time after a shocking drink-driving incident where he was caught with a blood alcohol concentration four times the legal limit.
Court Drama for NRL Great
The former Australian international appeared in court this week, where he was handed a four-month suspended sentence and fined £1,000. The 54-year-old, known as "The Pearl" during his illustrious playing career, was also disqualified from driving for 12 months.
Shocking Details Emerge
Police revealed Renouf recorded a staggering reading of 0.208 when breathalysed - more than quadruple Queensland's legal limit of 0.05. The incident occurred in Brisbane's northern suburbs in April, with officers spotting the former Broncos star driving erratically.
Public Apology from Fallen Hero
In a statement read to the court, the remorseful rugby great said: "I'm deeply ashamed of my actions and the example I've set. I've let down my family, friends and fans." His lawyer argued Renouf had shown genuine remorse and was receiving counselling for alcohol issues.
Career Highlights Overshadowed
The court heard character references highlighting Renouf's sporting achievements and community work. The Indigenous All Stars representative scored 142 tries in 183 NRL games and was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 2010.
Magistrate Tracy Fantin noted Renouf's previously clean record but stressed: "There's no excuse for driving at more than four times the legal limit. You put every other road user at serious risk."
