Brian Lake avoids jail over string of offences

Hawthorn AFL premiership player Brian Lake has been released from custody after receiving a community corrections order for assault, trespass, driving and property damage offences.

Lake was arrested following an incident on Tuesday night and faced Sunshine Magistrates Court on Friday.

The 37-year-old was sentenced to 250 hours community service over 18 months and had his driver's licence suspended for 21 days, allowing him to be released from custody where he has spent the past two nights.

He didn't speak as he left court surrounded by reporters and photographers, jumping straight into a waiting car.

Looking forlorn as he sat in the dock, the 2013 Norm Smith medallist was warned the charges were serious.

"If you had any prior serious criminal history, I would incarcerate you," the magistrate told Lake.

The court was told Lake had been seeking help for mental health issues for a number of years.

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