Jaiden Fidge is one of two men who raped a 14-year-old girl in 2024.
Fidge and Riley Glenn Smith – both regional footballers – tricked the teenager into leaving a party so they could assault her.
Fidge and Smith faced Geelong County Court this week for a sentencing hearing after pleading guilty to sexual penetration of a child under 16.
A raft of character references were provided for both men – including one submitted on Fidge’s behalf by – I am told – a woman who has a significant role at AFL Queensland.
Character references for rapists have long been a part of the court process, often leading to deeply inadequate sentencing of offenders.
Queensland and NSW have passed laws restricting use of good character references in sentencing convicted sex offenders.
Victoria – where the rapes occurred – has not outlawed them, although there are discussions happening on this.
Fidge comes from Tooowoomba, which explains the submission of the reference from the AFL in that state.
Both men will be sentenced at a later date.
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