West Coast rookie Murray Newman released from jail
West Coast's Murray Newman released from jail after fight in WA
WEST Coast’s Murray Newman has been granted parole on his one-year prison sentence for fracturing the jaw of a man who had sex with his girlfriend.
Newman was sentenced in March to serve at least six months behind bars for causing grievous bodily harm to Brett Marris at a Perth nightclub in November 2012.
The Prisoners Review Board noted that Newman had seen a psychologist before he was locked up and intended to continue treatment after his release.
The board said that showed a willingness to address his problems. The board also noted that Newman had participated in voluntary programs while in custody, had a limited criminal history, and had employment and accommodation.
The sentencing judge had said the then 18-year-old had a "deep grudge" against Mr Marris, then aged 20, for sleeping with the AFL player's girlfriend.
After weeks of threats from Newman on Facebook, including telling Mr Marris to "start digging a grave", the pair saw each other at the Library Nightclub in Northbridge.
Newman was sober but angry when the pair fought briefly before bouncers broke up the fight, the court heard.
The AFL player has remained on West Coast's rookie list while serving time behind bars.
He was supported in court during his trial by teammates including captain Darren Glass, Dean Cox, Nic Naitanui and Josh Kennedy.
On his debut in 2012, Newman played four games for the Eagles, but spent last year playing in the WAFL.
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