Major twist in Brownlow betting scandal as cops launch dramatic raid on associates of former AFL umpire connected with saga
- Police spoke to associates of ex-AFL referee Michael Pell
- It was alleged that Pell had leaked votes for the Brownlow Medal in 2022
- Pell was one of four men arrested, but he was never charged
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The 2022 Brownlow Medal betting scandal is under investigation after it came to light this week. Police carried out raids on referee staff at the center of the saga ahead of this year’s vote counting.
It is understood police have visited the homes of several associates of Michael Pell, the ex-field umpire who was one of the men arrested over allegations he leaked votes for the Brownlow Medal.
No charges have been filed since Pell was arrested nearly 11 months ago.
According to the Herald sun, the recent raids were carried out by police in Victoria armed with search warrants.
No arrests were made and some of the employees spoken to had previously been interviewed.
The investigation into the Brownlow Medal betting scandal continues after it came to light this week. Police carried out raids on employees of the referee at the center of the saga ahead of this year’s vote counting (pictured, former AFL on-field umpire Michael Pell)
The governing body, led by outgoing AFL boss Gillon McLachlan, made no findings against Pell
Carlton star Patrick Cripps won the Brownlow Medal last year, which is awarded by matchday referees
Pell’s attorney Jordana Fayman said the ongoing nature of the investigation “has taken its toll” on Pell and his family.
âGiven everything that has happened over the past 10 months, he looks forward to the investigation finally being concluded,â she said.
Pell walked away from the AFL on mental health grounds after his dramatic arrest.
The governing body, led by Gill McLachlan, made no findings against him.
Victoria Police said in September the investigation remained “active” and would leave no stone unturned given the nature of the allegations.
Last year, the AFL engaged the services of Sports Integrity Australia and Victoria Police after one of the league’s gambling partners spotted suspicious gambling activity in the lead-up to the gala event.
The suspect bets were placed on round-by-round bets.
Carlton star Patrick Cripps won the 2022 Brownlow Medal, which is awarded by collecting the most votes during regular season matches.
AFL field umpires administer the votes. They were back in the spotlight after Brisbane Lions star Lachie Neale took home this year’s coveted medal.
Many footy fans and former stars have been left wondering how referees judge matches after a host of big performances went unrewarded and some players appeared to vote on reputation.