Former AFL Star Accused of Deceiving Families in Pool Installation Scam
Nick Stevens, a retired Australian Football League player, is currently facing a criminal trial over allegations that he defrauded six families in regional Victoria. Prosecutors assert that Stevens, who had a professional career with Carlton and Port Adelaide, accepted a total of $171,000 from these households for the installation of swimming pools but failed to deliver legally compliant results.
Details of the Alleged Fraud
According to the prosecution led by Toni Stokes, Stevens operated as a dealer for Leisure Pools Australia in Mildura starting in 2017. This role provided him access to a reputable global manufacturer with advanced marketing tools. Initially, he installed six pools under proper supervision using a registered builder's license, ensuring all necessary permits and insurance were in place.
However, prosecutors claim that Stevens later decided to work independently without the required licenses or registrations. Despite being unlicensed and unable to obtain council permits or insurance, he allegedly continued to misrepresent his ability to install pools legally. On six separate occasions, families paid him for pool installations that either resulted in cracked structures or were never completed, leaving behind what prosecutors describe as giant holes in their backyards.
Legal Charges and Court Proceedings
Stevens has been charged with 18 offences, including theft, obtaining financial advantage by deception, and using a false document. He has entered a plea of not guilty to all charges. The trial commenced this week in Melbourne's County Court, with a jury empanelled to hear evidence from approximately 20 witnesses. These witnesses include the alleged victims, staff from Leisure Pools, and various building professionals.
Prosecutor Toni Stokes detailed how the victims' initial excitement turned into disappointment as they faced broken promises, endless delays, and frustration. She noted that Stevens refunded $28,000 to one family and $10,000 to another, but the remaining payments were not reimbursed.
Defense Arguments and Background
In defense, barrister Jim Stavris emphasized that Stevens is presumed innocent until proven guilty. He urged the jury to consider all evidence carefully, highlighting the refunds as proof of his client's good intentions. If somebody intends to defraud someone, deceive someone, they don't give money back, Stavris argued.
Nick Stevens, now 46 years old, retired from the AFL in 2009 after playing 231 games over 12 seasons. Following his football career, he ran a landscaping business before venturing into pool sales. The trial is being overseen by Judge Fiona Todd and is expected to continue with further testimonies and evidence presentation.
