Deepshikha Maan, Jadetimes Staff
D. Maan is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia
International Arrest Warrant Issued for Former Rugby Star Rocky Elsom Over Embezzlement Conviction
An international arrest warrant has been issued for former Australian rugby captain Rocky Elsom, following his conviction for embezzlement by a French court. Elsom, who served as president of RC Narbonne, one of France's prestigious rugby clubs, was found guilty of financial misconduct related to his time in office during 2015-2016.
Conviction and Sentence
The court convicted Elsom in absentia, sentencing him to five years in prison. The charges stem from allegations that Elsom misappropriated tens of thousands of euros by making payments to former club officials for little or no service. According to French reports, he authorized unjustified payments, including €79,000 to a former coach and a monthly salary of €7,200 to an Australian resident who never visited Narbonne.
Elsom’s Current Location and Involvement in Irish Rugby
Elsom recently revealed in an interview with The Sunday Times that he is currently living in Dublin, Ireland, where he coaches at the Catholic University School, a private institution for boys. The 41 year old rugby star indicated plans to remain in Dublin until December.
Elsom is a well-known figure in Irish rugby, having played for Leinster Rugby in the late 2000s, where he contributed to the team's 2009 Heineken Cup victory. He also appeared 75 times for the Australian national team, the Wallabies, between 2005 and 2011.
Financial Mismanagement and Club Decline
During his tenure as president, RC Narbonne, a club he co owned, experienced financial difficulties. The court found Elsom guilty of abusing corporate assets and forging documents, which contributed to the club’s eventual administration and relegation to lower leagues in 2018.
The judge imposed a harsher sentence than the two years requested by prosecutors, citing the gravity of the misconduct. Elsom has also been ordered to repay €705,000 to cover the funds misused during his time at the helm of the club.
