Pickett, who was arrested after his team’s win against Fremantle at the weekend, appeared in the Perth Magistrate’s Court on Monday and was granted bail to return to Melbourne.The 31-year-old AFL redemption story is facing 12 charges including stealing, criminal damage to a property and aggravated burglary.
“It’s said that the money is subject to some alleged laundering by the accused and co-accused in various states in Australia,” the police prosecutor said. It’s also alleged a campervan that was used to transfer some of the money interstate was rented in his name, and that clothing worn by the offenders was purchased by Pickett.But defence lawyer David Manera said the case against his client was weak.“The campervan that was rented in Mr Pickett’s name was taken by co-offenders across Australia,” he said.“And the phone tower ping in the area, Your Honour will be aware that type of evidence can often be unreliable.
Police opposed bail, noting Pickett’s previous jail sentence in 2011, however Manera said he had only committed one criminal offence since then for which he was fined.