In a significant development within Australian sports legal proceedings, criminal charges against two prominent AFL premiership players may potentially be dismissed as law enforcement authorities continue their witness investigation. The case involves Richmond midfielder Dion Prestia and recently retired Melbourne defender Steven May, both facing allegations related to a physical altercation that occurred in the coastal community of Sorrento during the early hours of December 26, 2024.
During Monday’s proceedings at Frankston Magistrates Court, prosecutor Alex Turner revealed that investigators remain actively engaged in interviewing additional witnesses, with one individual having provided testimony as recently as the previous week. The prosecution acknowledged the currently contradictory nature of evidence, stating that while some witnesses claim the athletes’ involvement, others provide exonerating accounts.
Both defendants maintained their consistent position of non-involvement through their legal representative Tony Hargreaves, who emphasized that the ongoing police investigation actually benefits from information supplied by the defense team. The athletes appeared via video link during the hearing, with Prestia wearing Richmond-branded attire and May dressed in formal clothing.
The judicial outcome hinges significantly on testimony from two remaining witnesses whom investigators hope to interview before the scheduled May 8 court date. Prosecutor Turner indicated that these final interviews would essentially determine whether the prosecution proceeds with the case or recommends charge withdrawal.
Magistrate Tony Burns granted the adjournment request, allowing additional time for evidence collection. The charges stem from an alleged physical confrontation between two groups that resulted in two individuals requiring hospital treatment. Prestia faces allegations of recklessly causing serious injury while May has been charged with affray.
Both athletes share a professional history dating back to their simultaneous AFL debuts with Gold Coast Suns in 2011. May recently concluded his professional career after eight seasons with Gold Coast and five with Melbourne, having announced his retirement earlier this month while committing to local football with East Ringwood for the 2026 season.