Sexual assault and rape charges against Geelong footballer Tanner Bruhn have been dropped after a key witness admitted to lying.
Witnesses also testified in court to the complainant lying to police.
The 23-year-old midfielder has been away from the field for over a year as he fought allegations that he assaulted a woman in February 2023.
Bruhn and his co-accused both maintained their innocence throughout the proceedings, with the cases against both struck out in the Geelong Magistrates’ Court today (Tuesday).
Bruhn’s case, which resulted in him being stood down from playing by the AFL, had been under a suppression order.
He will return to training when the Cats commence pre-season.
“While legal proceedings have been ongoing, the Club has provided professional welfare to Tanner during this time and will continue to do so,” Geelong said in a statement.
Bruhn was drafted from the Geelong Falcons by the GWS Giants in 2020, and played 30 games in two seasons before being traded to the Cats at the end of 2022.
The Newtown & Chilwell product has made 36 appearances for Geelong.
