Alan Jones (C), seen here in a February 2023 photo, has been arrested and charged with committing sex offenses against eight people between 2001 and 2019. PHoto by Dean Lewins/EPA-EFE
Nov. 18 (UPI) — Authorities in Australia on Monday arrested and charged veteran radio broadcaster and former national rugby team coach Alan Jones for sexually abusing seven adults and a 17-year-old over a two-decade span.
Jones was arrested at about 7:45 a.m. local time Monday by strike force detectives who were executing a search warrant at the former Wallabies coach’s residence in the Circular Quay neighborhood of Sydney, the New South Wales Police Force said in a statement.
“I’ve been told that he was quite calm,” Detective Superintendent Linda Howlett told reporters during a press conference, describing Jones’ demeanor when taken into police custody.
The 83-year-old has been charged with 24 offenses committed against eight victims. Eleven of the counts are for aggravated indecent assault against a victim under authority of the offender, nine for assault with act of indecency, two for sexually touching another person without consent and two counts of common assault.
His arrest is the result of Strike Force Bonnefin, which was established in March to investigate the incidents allegedly occurring between 2001 and 2019.
Assistant Commissioner Michael Fitzgerald told reporters that Jones knew his victims — some personally, others professionally — including some he is accused of abusing during their first meeting.
He also clarified that the 11 counts of aggravated indecent assault were for crimes allegedly committed against employees.
Police seized “a number of electronic devices” during the Monday search of Jones’ residence, Fitzgerald added.
Fitzgerald commended the detectives for bringing charges in the case.
“Historical matters such as this are incredibly hard to investigate and bring before the courts and I again congratulate them on their ongoing investigation.
He also commended the victims for their “bravery” in coming forward.
“They fully are aware, as are the investigators, that the hard work is just beginning and they have given their statements fully aware that they will go before the courts,” he said.
Solicitor and barrister Chris Murphy, Jones’ lawyer, told reporters outside the police station that his client denies the charges.
“Allegations have been made, nothing has been tested, nothing has been proven,” Murphy said, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported.
“Alan Jones will assert his innocence appropriately in the courtroom.”
Jones was made coach of the Wallabies in 1984. His 102 wins with the team makes him the most successful Australian rugby coach in history, according to the Sport Australia Hall of Fame, which inducted Jones in 1989.
His sports career was followed by a successful broadcasting career.
Jones was granted conditional bail, and is next to appear in court Dec. 18, NSW Police said.