The four Sydney Swans players in question - Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner, James Jordon and Nick Blakey - had been under police investigation since the eve of the 2026 AFL finals over an alleged sexual assault that was said to have taken place inside the Pullman Hotel in East Melbourne, when the players were celebrating an MCG victory over Essendon with some late night festivities.
They and teammate Riley Bice were stood down by the Swans for the entire finals series after allegedly engaging in all-night drinking and bringing into the hotel three women, who the next morning made a report to Victoria Police alleging sexual misconduct.
Sydney had condemned the four - as well as teammate Riley Bice - for breaching the club's code of conduct with their all-nighter and forced the group to make a personal apology to the club's AFLW squad following revelations the players had hired the services of a topless dancer after the match.
Victoria Police said on Friday that they "will not proceed with criminal charges due to insufficient evidence".
Each of the women are said to be exploring options for a potential civil suit against the players, with well known firm Slater & Gordon representing at least one litigant.
“Our client is devastated by this outcome,” Slater & Gordon senior lawyer Jackson Pannam told The Guardian on Friday.
“She reported the incident immediately, provided a formal statement and cooperated fully with the investigation. She has shown enormous courage in coming forward.
“The absence of criminal charges does not prevent a civil claim from proceeding. This outcome also sits within broader patterns of under-reporting and attrition in sexual offence matters.”
Heeney said the almost four-month period since the incident in the early hours of August 17 had been "incredibly difficult" for he and his family.
“Watching my family carry the weight of this has been heartbreaking. To my family and friends, your love and loyalty has meant more than words can do justice," Heeney added.
“To those that have never doubted me and stood by my side in solidarity — thank you. I know it has not been easy in the face of such intense public scrutiny. I will never forget your support.
“To the entire Sydney Swans Club – my teammates, coaches, the board, our sponsors, and our loyal members and fans – thank you for keeping faith in me."
The AFL released a brief statement on Friday acknowledging Victoria Police's decision and said they "reserve the right" to look into the matter further should any new information come to light, including during potential civil proceedings against the players.