Ricky Nixon Arrested: Former AFL Agent Faces New Charges
Former AFL player agent and once high-profile figure Ricky Nixon has been arrested and charged following a series of disturbing social media posts. The 62-year-old, known for his controversial career, was apprehended in Port Melbourne after allegedly threatening to kill a police officer on Facebook. This latest incident adds another chapter to a long history of legal battles and scandals.
A Career Marked by Controversy
Nixon’s career trajectory is as fascinating as it is turbulent. While he played 63 AFL games across three clubs in the 1980s and 90s, his true notoriety came post-retirement. He established the successful sports management company, Flying Start, representing some of the biggest names in Australian Rules Football. However, his ambition extended beyond Australian shores. In 2008, he launched recruitment camps in Ireland, targeting promising GAA stars for AFL clubs. This endeavor, however, drew criticism, notably from Tadhg Kennelly, who cautioned against Nixon’s methods.
Legal Troubles and Scandals
Nixon’s past is littered with controversies. In 2011, his agent license was revoked for two years following "inappropriate dealings" with a 17-year-old girl. He's also faced charges for drink driving, assaulting a former fiancée, and even allegedly kneeing a police officer in court. More recently, in June 2024, he was convicted of unlawful assault and discharging a missile, stemming from an incident involving an Australia Post worker. Now, he faces charges of intimidating a law enforcement officer, making threats to kill, and using a carriage service to menace, all related to his recent Facebook posts.
The Facebook Threats and Arrest
Police acted swiftly on the threats made on Nixon's Facebook page, leading to his arrest. While he claimed his account was hacked, he was subsequently charged and bailed to appear in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on July 4th. This latest arrest underscores a pattern of erratic behavior and brushes with the law, raising serious questions about his future.
The Future Unclear
The outcome of Nixon's upcoming court appearance remains to be seen. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and potential pitfalls of fame and fortune, even in the world of professional sports. The legacy of Ricky Nixon, once a powerful figure in Australian football, is now inextricably linked to his controversial actions and ongoing legal battles.