Prominent Australian broadcaster and former Wallabies coach Alan Jones, 83, was arrested Monday and charged with 24 historical sex offences following an investigation by New South Wales Police's child abuse squad.
The charges, which include 11 counts of aggravated indecent assault, involve eight alleged victims spanning incidents between 2001 and 2019. Authorities allege some of the victims were known to Jones personally or professionally, with the youngest being 17 years old at the time of the alleged offence.
Jones, a household name in Australia, rose to fame in the 1980s as the coach of the national rugby team, leading them to a "grand slam" victory over the UK and Ireland teams. His influence extended into media, where he became a polarizing figure as a conservative radio host, wielding significant power in Australian politics and public discourse before retiring in 2020.
Detectives arrested Jones at his Sydney Harbour residence after a search warrant was executed. State Crime Commander Michael Fitzgerald praised the courage of the victims in coming forward, noting that "the hard work is just beginning."
Jones has previously denied allegations of misconduct, including claims published in late 2023 by the *Sydney Morning Herald*.
The case has drawn widespread attention, with critics reflecting on the broadcaster's divisive legacy and the influence he held over Australian media and politics.
