AFL great Carl Ditterich charged with child sex offences

Carl Ditterich, a former Australian Rules Football (AFL) player and coach, was charged with multiple child sex offenses by Victoria Police in March 2023. The charges stem from an alleged incident that occurred in 1985 involving a then-underage girl.

Ditterich, who played for North Melbourne Football Club between 1977 and 1983, was a key forward and was known for his impressive goal-scoring abilities. After retiring from playing, he went on to coach various football teams, including North Melbourne's reserves and the South Melbourne Swans.

The charges against Ditterich came to light after a woman came forward and reported an incident that had occurred over three decades ago. The alleged victim was under the age of consent at the time of the incident.

Victoria Police launched an investigation into the matter and, following a thorough examination of the evidence, charged Ditterich with multiple counts of sexual penetration of a child under the age of 16 and indecent assault of a child under the age of 16.

Ditterich was arrested and interviewed by police before being released on bail. He was ordered to appear before Melbourne Magistrates' Court at a later date to face the charges.

The AFL issued a statement expressing its concern for the welfare of the alleged victim and its support for the legal process. North Melbourne Football Club also released a statement expressing its shock and disappointment at the allegations and stating that it would fully cooperate with the police investigation.

Ditterich's legal team issued a statement denying the allegations and expressing their client's intention to fight the charges. The statement also expressed sympathy for any distress caused to the alleged victim and called for a fair and impartial trial.

The case is currently before the courts and further details are not available at this time. It is important to note that all allegations of child sexual abuse are taken seriously and that anyone who has experienced such abuse is encouraged to report it to the authorities.