STOKES ON COKE CHARGES
Ben Jensen 3 February 2010

By Ben Jensen GEELONG PREMIERSHIP FORWARD MATTHEW STOKES has been charged with drugs charges, including possession of and trafficking cocaine. The shock news came as the club quickly announced Stokes, who was granted bail, has been banned from all activities with the Geelong Football Club. Stokes, who sported a Movember-esque appearance, is due to reappear in the Geelong Magistrate's Court on 12 March. It is alleged Stokes purchased one gram of cocaine for $500 on January 19 in Grovedale. Police detected the activities as part of a wider investigation.

The evidence given by police in court and statements made outside make quite graphic reading. According to Senior Constable Matthew Plunkett Stokes and a co-accused, Matthew Randall of Grovedale, exchanged phone calls and text messages, with the transaction taking place later the same day with follow up texts in days after.

While haggling over prices on 19 January 2010, Randall allegedly told Stokes ‘‘it would be 500 for straight up or 350 for not so high quality but still good’’. Senior Constable Matthew Plunkett said the 500 and 350 referred to one gram of cocaine.

Stokes allegedly responded that he would have "some of each" and would contact Randall when was finished at the footy club.

On 20 January, Randall allegedly texted Stokes, inquiring if he had "had a go".

Two days later Stokes allegedly replied, stating that a mate ‘‘had tested it and it was very good shit’’.

Acting Detective Inspector Michael Baker, speaking outside court, told the press pack no other Geelong players were under investigation. He explained Stokes was arrested this morning, after which his home and vehicle were searched, while no drugs were found. He said it was not alleged Stokes himself took the drugs. ‘‘We have nothing to suggest he had taken it himself. He was very helpful.’’

Club Statement:

“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 judgment 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.”