Parramatta Eels recruit Jarryd Hayne denies sexual assault claims

  • 21/12/2017
The Eels flyer "unequivocally and vehemently" rejects the accusations.
The Eels flyer "unequivocally and vehemently" rejects the accusations. Photo credit: Getty Images

Parramatta Eels recruit Jarryd Hayne has strongly denied claims he sexually assaulted a woman in 2015 after a civil suit was filed against him on Wednesday (NZ time).

It's alleged Hayne engaged in non-consensual sexual intercourse with a female referred to as "Ms V" in December 2015 during his time in the US playing for the NFL's San Francisco 49ers.

A statement released by Hayne's lawyers says the utility back "unequivocally and vehemently" denies any involvement in the case.

"We act for Mr Jarryd Hayne. We are instructed to issue the statement below: Mr Hayne and his management are aware of recent media speculation in relation to a civil complaint filed in the United States of America making certain allegations in relation to an event which allegedly occurred in 2015 whilst playing for the San Francisco 49ers.

"Mr Hayne has not been served with any proceedings or formal complaint relating to the incident.

"Mr Hayne previously addressed a complaint made to the District Attorney's office in the County of Santa Clara, California in 2016 and the District Attorney did not proceed any further with the matter due to insufficient evidence to substantiate the allegations. Mr Hayne provided all reasonable assistance to the District Attorney with that investigation.

"Mr Hayne unequivocally and vehemently denies the allegations which are the subject of the civil complaint. Mr Hayne will not be making any further comment in relation to this matter."

Meanwhile, Eels club chairman Max Donnelly saying the club had been unaware of the claim.

''The club has been made aware of serious allegations regarding Jarryd Hayne during his time with the San Francisco 49ers. We were unaware of these allegations until they were made public today,'' the statement said.

''As with any legal matter, it is important that we follow due process and ensure that we review all relevant information available, including giving Jarryd the opportunity to respond. The club will continue to monitor the situation and when appropriate we will provide an update to members and media.''

Hayne played for the 49ers for one season and made international headlines after leaving his prolific rugby league career behind to chase his lifetime dream of playing in the NFL.

After the one season, Hayne retired from the NFL and had a short stint in rugby sevens before returning to rugby league with the Gold Coast Titans.

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