Bodycam Footage Captures Hawthorn Players' Arrest in Arizona for Trespassing Incident
Exclusive bodycam footage has emerged, documenting the dramatic moment when Hawthorn AFL stars Dylan Moore and Connor Macdonald were arrested by police in the United States. The incident occurred during an off-season training camp in November, when the players were caught trespassing on a cherry picker late at night in Arizona.
Details of the Arrest and Police Interaction
Scottsdale Police have now released the footage, which shows Moore and Macdonald pleading with officers to allow them to call an Uber home as they are being handcuffed. In the video, Moore is seen atop the cherry picker, speaking with a police officer who informs him he is under arrest for trespassing because the property does not belong to him.
When questioned, one of the players responds, "We didn't know that," to which the officer retorts, "You didn't know this wasn't yours?" After a brief exchange, the officer repeats the question, and the player admits, "Yeah, we didn't know." Another Australian man can be heard laughing in the background as the pair are handcuffed, prompting a warning from an officer about potential arrest for interference.
Legal Consequences and Aftermath of the Incident
As the police gather identification from the players' pockets, a small plastic bag falls to the ground. One player quickly denies ownership, but an officer states it will be treated as evidence. Initially, Moore faced a charge of possessing drug paraphernalia, but this was later dropped. Following the arrest, both players spent a night in an Arizona jail.
In the aftermath, Moore was stripped of his Hawthorn vice-captaincy. Speaking exclusively to 7NEWS last week, he expressed deep regret over the incident. "I was in the US, I was out having a few drinks, and made a foolish mistake," Moore said. "Decided to get on a scissor lift and next thing I know the cops are there telling me to get off, and I got off, and next thing I know I'm in police custody."
He described feeling disappointment, regret, stress, and anxiety during the ordeal, particularly worrying about how his friends and family in Australia would react. Moore emphasized that he immediately contacted the club, which provided firm but supportive communication in the following months.
Key Points from the Police Report and Player Statements
- The arrest was prompted by a security guard's report of trespassing on private property.
- Police emphasized that ignoring the guard's warnings constituted immediate trespassing.
- Moore and Macdonald were cooperative during the arrest but faced legal consequences.
- The incident has led to significant personal and professional repercussions for the players.
This case highlights the serious implications of trespassing laws in the United States and serves as a cautionary tale for athletes abroad. The released footage provides a stark visual of the events, underscoring the players' regret and the swift actions taken by authorities.
