Rugby Player Pleads Guilty to Sexual Assault, Dismissed by Club

A rugby league athlete has been dismissed by his team following his admission of guilt to a sexual assault charge. Dion Aiye, aged 37, confessed to the offense on Monday at Workington Magistrates’ Court, located in Cumbria. He was granted conditional bail and is scheduled for sentencing at Carlisle Crown Court on December 16. Whitehaven RLFC announced it had officially terminated Aiye’s contract with the club and expressed gratitude for the supporters’ understanding “during this period of uncertainty”. The club stated its prior silence was due to Aiye’s initial intention to plead not guilty, and therefore, it aimed to avoid “prejudice the case”. Earlier this year, Aiye received an eight-match suspension after being found guilty of assaulting his former partner. He confessed to assault by beating and harassment, resulting in an 18-month community order. Readers can connect with BBC Cumbria on X, Facebook, Nextdoor, and Instagram. Story submissions can be sent to northeastandcumbria@bbc.co.uk. This content is copyrighted by BBC in 2024. All rights are reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for material on external websites. Information regarding its policy on external links is available.