Charge against rugby star dropped

A charge of burglary against Wallabies rugby union star Quade Cooper has been
dropped in a Gold Coast court.
Cooper, 22, did not appear in Southport Magistrates Court on Friday, when police
offered no evidence against him on allegations he stole two laptops from a residence
in Surfers Paradise on December 6.
The late-night incident had threatened to derail the young fly half's career.
However, the Australian Rugby Union wasn't quite so lenient about the incident,
fining the gifted pivot $7500.
The ARU concluded its own internal investigation after the case was dropped on Friday.
The ARU said it had taken into account negative publicity for the game and Cooper's
failure late last month to alert them to another court appearance related to a
traffic infringement.
"We're pleased Quade has had this issue resolved and can now look to move forward,"
said ARU high-performance unit general manager David Nucifora.
Cooper said: "I want to thank everyone who's helped me during what has been a
challenging time, particularly family and close friends.
"I'm glad I can now just concentrate on playing well for Australia."
Cooper's lawyers said the charge was withdrawn after a justice mediation process
with the complainants conducted through the Department of Justice and
Attorney-General.
Chesterfield Lawyers director Dan McManus said mediation was an accepted part of the
Queensland justice system.
"It can only take place with the willing participation and consent of all parties,
including the Queensland Police Service," he said.
"Justice mediation is a confidential process and the parties cannot elaborate on the
content or details of the events nor the process which has led to this outcome.