Former NRL and Origin star James Roberts has been charged with drug possession and theft offences after allegedly being found in possession of cannabis and over $1000 in suspected stolen cash. The charges stem from an incident on July 30 when Roberts was stopped by police in Matraville. He was issued with a court attendance notice this week. Roberts, who was named the Dally M Centre Of The Year in 2015, played 168 games for various NRL teams over an 11-year career and represented NSW in the 2018 State of Origin series.
Despite his success on the field, Roberts’ career was marred by injuries and a series of off-field controversies. This is not the first time he has found himself in trouble with the law. Last year, he was filmed punching the door of a police van as he was led away from court where he was facing an apprehended violence order. Roberts’ retirement from rugby league was met with mixed emotions, with some praising his talents on the field while others criticized his off-field behavior.
Former Wests Tigers chief executive Justin Pascoe spoke highly of Roberts, acknowledging his talent and ability to excite crowds with his plays. However, Roberts’ off-field behavior overshadowed his on-field success, with a string of controversies following him throughout his career. His latest charges of drug possession and possessing stolen cash add to his troubled history and further tarnish his reputation as a once-promising NRL star.
Roberts is expected to appear in Waverley Local Court on December 18 to face the charges against him. The outcomes of this court appearance could have serious implications for his future in rugby league and beyond. Despite his past successes and talents on the field, Roberts’ off-field behavior and legal issues have overshadowed his career and may have lasting consequences for his reputation and legacy as an NRL player. It remains to be seen how these latest charges will impact his future in the sport and whether he will be able to overcome this latest setback.
As a former NRL and Origin star, James Roberts’ fall from grace serves as a cautionary tale for athletes about the consequences of off-field behavior. While he achieved success on the field, his personal struggles and legal issues have overshadowed his career and tarnished his legacy as a once-promising player. Roberts’ latest charges of drug possession and theft add to his troubled history and further damage his reputation. As he faces legal consequences for his actions, the future of his career and reputation remains uncertain. Roberts’ story serves as a reminder of the challenges and pitfalls that come with the spotlight of professional sports and the importance of making responsible choices both on and off the field.
