Geelong’s Mathew Stokes was today charged by police with one count of possession and one count of trafficking of cocaine.
“We are disappointed by the turn of events today,” Geelong CEO Brian Cook said.
“Given the gravity of the charges the club has decided that Mathew will be stood down from all club activity as we attempt to gather all the facts of this matter.
“This is not a rush to judgement but a reflection on the seriousness of the situation. It is important for Mathew that he deals with legal issues at hand as his first priority.
“As we have in the past, the club will not rush to formulate a long term determination of any penalty. Mathew is obviously very upset by what has happened and we will give him a little time to gather his thoughts and then we will sit down with him and work through the situation.
“The club has been in contact with the AFL throughout the day to ensure they have been kept informed.
“When there is any update to this situation the club will make further statement.”
Stokes was released on bail following the hearing. He is scheduled to reappear in court on 12 March.
