Former Richmond star Marlion Pickett has avoided jail by a 'knife edge' after admitting to laundering more than $300,000 in stolen money. Pickett faced sentencing on Wednesday in Perth District Court, having pleaded guilty to possession and dealings of proceeds of crime offences. He was originally charged with 12 offences in 2023 related to several burglaries.
Judge Laurence Levy handed down a two-year sentence, suspended for 12 months, but warned Pickett would 'almost inevitably' be jailed if he reoffended. The judge noted Pickett's poor mental health at the time, describing how he was moving from house to house and deeply affected by his father's ill health. 'I made clear that you were on a knife's edge whether you went into jail,' Judge Levy said.
The court heard of Pickett's methamphetamine use and a criminal record described as '10 pages' long. He had previously spent time in jail from age 18 and had been convicted of serious offences. However, Judge Levy acknowledged Pickett's commitment to rehabilitation, stating he could inspire others from similar backgrounds.
High-profile figures, including former Richmond chief Brendon Gale and former police officer Paul Litherland, provided character references. Litherland, who coached Pickett as a teenager, walked alongside him after the sentencing. Pickett thanked his supporters, saying, 'I'd like to say thank you for the support, believing in me.'
Pickett became famous in 2019 when he debuted in the AFL grand final, helping Richmond win the premiership. He was only the sixth player to debut in a VFL/AFL decider.
