Former Brisbane Broncos premiership winner and Queensland State of Origin representative Josh McGuire has been formally charged by Queensland Police over two alleged incidents involving a five-year-old child.
Police Investigation Leads to Serious Charges
The Gateway Child Protection and Investigation Unit conducted an investigation which resulted in two charges being laid against the 35-year-old ex-rugby league forward. The most serious charge is one count of common assault, which police allege involved the strangling of a child.
McGuire was taken into custody and processed at the Brisbane Watchhouse on Tuesday. He is now scheduled to face the Brisbane Magistrates Court in December, just one week before Christmas.
A Decorated Rugby League Career
Josh McGuire enjoyed a highly successful professional career in the National Rugby League. He played 197 games for the Brisbane Broncos before having stints with the North Queensland Cowboys and the St George Illawarra Dragons.
His achievements on the field were significant:
- Represented Australia and was a member of the victorious 2017 Rugby League World Cup team.
- Played 14 State of Origin matches for Queensland.
- His NRL career concluded in 2022, after which he played for the Warrington Wolves in the English Super League.
Following his retirement from playing, McGuire returned to the Broncos in 2023 in a coaching advisory role, focusing on contact and wrestling techniques.
Community Roles and Pending Court Date
Outside of football, McGuire has been known for his charitable work. He has served as an ambassador for Ronald McDonald House and for Mates4Mates, an organisation that provides support services, including mental health assistance, to Australian Defence Force veterans and their families.
The serious nature of the charges has cast a shadow over his post-football life. All eyes will now be on the Brisbane Magistrates Court as the legal process begins. The matter is set for a hearing where McGuire will have the opportunity to respond to the allegations formally.
Queensland Police have confirmed the charges but have not released further specific details about the alleged incidents, citing the ongoing legal proceedings.
