Major twist in Swans alleged sexual assault saga as cops probe mystery man over secret recording
The months-long investigation into sexual assault allegations involving Sydney Swans players has widened after a secret recording was seized by police.
Detectives are reportedly probing the activities of a man who recorded the alleged female victims discussing the August 17 alleged incident at the Pullman East Melbourne Hotel in the days that followed.
The man reportedly got in touch with Swans officials about the recording, prompting the club to alert the AFL Integrity Unit, which passed the information to Victoria Police.
It’s understood sexual crimes squad investigators executed a search warrant at a Melbourne home last month to seize the recording and have since spoken to a number of people as part of their inquiries.
The adult entertainers were reportedly deeply upset and angry about being recorded without their consent, the Herald Sun reported.
The exact nature of allegations against the man remains unclear as the 10-week investigation continues.
‘As the investigation remains ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment,’ a Victoria Police spokeswoman told the Daily Mail on Thursday.
‘There are no updates to provide.’
Chad Warner and Isaac Heeney are among four players remain under investigation over the alleged sexual assault scandal that rocked the Sydney Swans days out from the AFL finals
Detectives are probing the activities of a man who recorded the alleged female victims discussing the August 17 alleged incident at The Pullman East Melbourne Hotel
A decision on potential criminal charges is expected next month. Pictured are James Jordon, Isaac Heeney and Nick Blakey
Sydney Swans stars Isaac Heeney, Chad Warner and James Jordon, along with their former teammate Nick Blakey, remain under investigation.
The players have since apologised to officials and players over the conduct that led to their suspensions. They have also denied any criminal wrongdoing.
No charges have yet been laid.
A decision on potential criminal charges is expected next month following a review by the Office of Public Prosecutions.
The four players were stood down for the remainder of the 2026 season over breaches of the Swans’ behavioural standards, with the club sanctions separate from the sexual assault allegations.
Riley Bice, who has since been cleared by police and is now being treated as a witness, was also suspended.
Blakey has since left the club and joined North Melbourne on a $12million eight-season contract.
Heeney, who recently won his third consecutive Bob Skilton Medal as the club’s best and fairest, has also reportedly split from fiancée Steffi Waters.
Meanwhile, the Sydney Swans Football Club is understood to be facing civil action, while several players, including Heeney, have reportedly been served with a writ.
Two of the adult entertainers are being represented by Carbone Lawyers, with Slater & Gordon acting for a third.
The Sydney Swans will kick off the 2027 season for the fourth consecutive year against Geelong at the SCG on March 17.
