NRL player busted in 'love triangle' dealing with 'alcohol issues'
Adam Elliott has apologised after being caught in a compromising situation with the fiancee of a former teammate, with the Canterbury Bulldogs vowing to support their player as he deals with alcohol "issues".
The NRL Integrity Unit have conducted their investigation into the incident that saw former Bulldogs hooker Michael Lichaa charged over an alleged domestic-related assault of his fiancee, Kara Childerhouse.
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Lichaa, who played for the Bulldogs until being released at the end of the 2019 NRL season, was at a Connells Point home on Valentine's Day morning when the alleged assault occurred.
Police allege Lichaa, 27, was involved in an argument at the house with Elliott and his fiancee, who according to court documents was busted "making out" with her partner's friend.
Police have alleged that Lichaa assaulted Ms Childerhouse and punched a window, severely injuring his hand.
The former Bulldogs player suffered serious injuries to his arms and was taken to a Sydney hospital for surgery.
He was later charged with domestic-related assault, property destruction and intimidation offences, with his lawyer Sam Saadat telling Sutherland Local Court that his client would be pleading not guilty to the charges.
The Bulldogs have condemned Elliot for his part in the messy 'love triangle' and have vowed to provide support so he can get the help he needs.
The NRL Integrity Unit determined that Elliot did not breach any of its guidelines for players and the Bulldogs opted not to fine their player.
Instead, Canterbury confirmed in a club statement that it would support Elliot as he undergoes alcohol rehabilitation.
Elliot 'undertaking necessary help'
“Upon consultation with the NRL and the NRL Integrity Unit, the Club can report that there will be no formal breach from the NRL," a Bulldogs statement read.
“The Bulldogs would like to thank the NRL in regard to their co-operation and support regarding this matter.
“In response to what has taken place, the Bulldogs have conducted their own review and have decided that Adam will undertake professional help in regard to issues with alcohol, with the Bulldogs to provide full support including a strict monitoring process.
“The Club does not condone Adam’s actions which have had a negative impact on the Club and its supporters, however, we acknowledge that Adam has taken full responsibility for his actions and we are supportive of assisting Adam in ensuring he receives the welfare support and help that he requires.”
Elliot accepted that he needed help to deal with alcohol issues and apologised to the club, its sponsors, his teammates and fans for any hurt or embarrassment the incident may have caused.
“This is an extremely difficult time for my family and I,” Elliot added in the statement.
“They are my most important focus at the moment and I ask that people can respect mine and my family’s privacy at this time.
“In consultation with the Club, I will be undertaking the necessary help that I require with appropriate measures and checks.
“I would also like to take this opportunity to apologise to all Bulldogs members, fans and sponsors about recent events. I have brought unnecessary attention to the Club at a time when we are preparing hard for the season.”
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