Former All Black Byron Kelleher Granted Diversion

Assault Charges Dismissed After Alcohol-Fueled Incident

Details of Incident Revealed in Police Complaint

Former All Black Byron Kelleher has been granted diversion and had his charges dismissed after being arrested for allegedly assaulting a 37-year-old woman during a violent incident in 2019. The police complaint details how Kelleher allegedly attacked the woman while under the influence of alcohol. According to AFP's report of the trial, the court found that Kelleher was intoxicated and had not intended to harm the woman.

Kelleher, a retired rugby union scrum-half who was famed for his speed and strength, was arrested during an alcohol-fuelled night out celebrating his engagement in Auckland's Viaduct. The incident occurred after a verbal altercation between Kelleher and the woman. The police were called to the scene and Kelleher was taken into custody.

Kelleher, who last played for the national team in 2007 and retired from all rugby in 2012, appeared in court on the assault charges. The judge granted him diversion, a process that allows first-time offenders to avoid a criminal conviction by completing a rehabilitation program.

The incident has raised concerns about alcohol-related violence and the need for athletes to be held accountable for their actions. It is time for Mr Kelleher to understand that at home things are not resolved through violence like on a rugby field," said a spokesperson for the police.