Former Junior Club President Faces Fraud Charges Over Alleged $20,000 Theft
A 36-year-old man, who recently served as the junior president of a prominent Hunter region Australian Football League club, has been arrested and charged with defrauding the organisation of more than $20,000. Matthew James Norris was taken into custody by police at a sports oval in Gillieston Heights on Saturday morning, January 24, following an extensive investigation into financial irregularities at the Maitland Saints Australian Football Club.
Police Investigation Uncovers Unauthorised Withdrawals
Law enforcement authorities allege that Norris made nine unauthorised withdrawals from a club account, totalling $21,415. The investigation into the suspected fraud began in July last year, after club officials reported discrepancies. Officers from Maitland Police Station executed the arrest just after 10:30 am at the oval, where Norris was attending a local cricket match.
The accused was subsequently charged with dishonestly obtaining a financial advantage by deception. He was taken to Maitland Police Station for processing before facing an out-of-sessions bail hearing later that same day.
Bail Granted Under Strict Conditions
Initially refused bail, Norris was later released by a magistrate under stringent conditions. These include reporting to Maitland police twice weekly. He has not yet been required to enter a formal plea to the charges and is scheduled to appear at Maitland Local Court next month.
The Maitland Saints confirmed to media in October that Norris no longer held any official position with the club, a statement reiterated by chairman Lindsay Guy this week. "He was no longer in any official club position," Mr Guy stated, adding that the club had contacted police upon discovering the alleged financial misconduct.
Club Background and Community Impact
The Maitland Saints, established as a junior club in 2007, have grown significantly and now field senior men's and women's teams in the Hunter Central Coast AFL competition. The club boasts over 300 players and is based at Max McMahon Oval in Rutherford, where a multimillion-dollar amenities building is currently under construction by Maitland City Council.
This development project is due for completion in the coming months, representing a significant investment in local sporting infrastructure. The allegations against the former junior president come at a time when the club is expanding its facilities and community presence.
The case highlights the importance of financial oversight in community sports organisations, which often rely on volunteer management and member contributions. Police continue their investigations as the legal process moves forward.
