Josh Addo-Carr returns positive roadside drug test, throwing the ...
Josh Addo-Carr has returned a positive test for cocaine after a roadside drug test last Friday night.
The 29-year-old told Canterbury officials earlier this week that he did not consume illicit drugs after a first roadside test allegedly returned a positive reading.
Now, New South Wales Police said a second test also returned a positive result.
"About 10.45pm on Friday 6 September 2024, officers attached to Auburn Police Area Command were patrolling Baywater Drive, Wentworth Point, when they stopped a Toyota hatchback for random testing," a NSW Police media statement read.
"The driver — a 29-year-old man — was subjected to a roadside breath test which returned a negative result.
"The driver underwent a preliminary drug wipe, which allegedly returned a positive indication.
"An oral fluid sample was obtained and sent for further analysis.
"On Friday 13 September 2024, Auburn Police received notification that the sample had been analysed and returned a positive reading to cocaine.
"Police have served an infringement notice for the offence of drive motor vehicle with illicit drug present in oral fluid – first offence — on the 29-year-old man's legal representative."
Josh Addo-Carr thanked the club for its support. (Getty Images: Cameron Spencer)
In a statement read out by Addo-Carr's lawyer on Friday, the Bulldogs winger said he had paid the infringement.
"Despite the fact that Josh maintains he has has never knowingly ingested any illegal drugs, he has decided to pay the infringement and bring this matter to an end, legally," Elias Tabchouri said.
"This matter has had a dramatic impact on Josh and his family. It has also been a distraction from a significant game for his beloved Bulldogs.
"He appreciates all the support of the club, particularly the general manager, Phil Gould and the coach Cameron Ciraldo."
Addo-Carr did voluntarily stand down from the Bulldogs squad for its elimination finals match against Manly on Sunday afternoon, however.
"We accept Josh's belief of his innocence and we will support him through the process," Bulldogs football boss Phil Gould said on Tuesday.
The Bulldogs released a statement on Friday saying the club would support Addo-Carr.
"The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs have been advised that NRL squad member Josh Addo-Carr has returned a positive result on the second sample taken on Friday night (September 6) at a NSW Police random roadside illicit drug test," the statement read.
"Josh has left training to be with his manager, Mario Tartak. The club is offering Josh appropriate support during this difficult period."
The club said it was "committed to following the appropriate protocols with regards to the player's contract and CBA."
It said it would work with NRL Integrity Unit, the player and his management team throughout further investigations.
"While we treat this issue with utmost seriousness, Josh's welfare is our highest priority at this time," the statement continued.
"We will not be making any further comment until more information is available to the club. We request that the privacy of Josh and his family be respected during this challenging time.
"In the meantime, our focus remains steadfast on preparation for Sunday's match."
