The alleged offences occurred between December 2022 and January 2023,and took place in Nollamara,Girrawheen,Beverley,Beechboro and Perth.
A club source,who wasn’t authorised to speak publicly,said that prior to flying to Perth,Pickett had organised to meet with detectives in Western Australia while he was there for the Fremantle game. Detectives were happy for him to play the game on Saturday night and to come in for an interview on Sunday morning. He was charged and had to be remanded because of a bail breach when he was a teenager.
Pickett’s partner and four children had flown to Perth for the game;they have since returned to Melbourne. At least one senior Richmond official has remained in Perth.
In a statement released on Sunday,Richmond confirmed the club would continue to support the 31-year-old.
“Marlion Pickett has been remanded in custody on alleged burglary charges and will attend Perth Magistrates Court tomorrow for a bail hearing. The alleged offences occurred in December 2022 and January 2023. The club will continue to support Marlion and his family while these matters are dealt with,” the Tigers statement said.
His manager Anthony Van Der Wielen toldThe Age that Pickett “has a strong intent to defend himself against the charges”.