AFL great Carl Ditterich charged with child sex offences

Carl Ditterich, a former Australian Rules Football (AFL) player and coach, was charged with multiple child sex offenses by Victoria Police in March 2023. The charges stem from an alleged incident that occurred in 1985 involving a then-underage girl.

Ditterich, who played for North Melbourne Football Club between 1977 and 1983, was a key forward and made a significant impact during his career. He kicked 223 goals in 123 games for North Melbourne and was a member of their premiership team in 1977. After retiring as a player, he went on to coach various football teams, including North Melbourne's reserves and the South Melbourne Swans.

The alleged offense came to light when the victim, now an adult, reported the incident to police. The Victoria Police Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team (SOTAT) launched an investigation and subsequently charged Ditterich with multiple counts of indecent assault and sexual penetration of a child under the age of 16.

Ditterich was arrested and charged on March 23, 2023. He was released on bail and is required to appear before Melbourne Magistrates' Court on May 2, 2023. The charges carry a maximum penalty of up to 20 years' imprisonment if proven in court.

North Melbourne Football Club issued a statement expressing their concern for the victim and their support for anyone affected by child abuse. They also stated that they would cooperate fully with the police investigation and would not be making any further comment at this time.

The AFL and the Australian Sports Commission have also released statements expressing their commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children and their zero-tolerance policy towards child abuse. They urged anyone who has experienced or witnessed such incidents to report them to the appropriate authorities.

This is a developing story and more information may be released as the investigation progresses. It is important to remember that all allegations of child abuse are taken seriously and that those affected have the right to report incidents and seek support.