‘You've got me': NRL great faces court
The 55-year-old rugby league icon, who was surrounded by media outside the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Wednesday, was charged after allegedly recording a blood alcohol concentration nearly four times the legal limit.
Police prosecutor Kiara D'Odorico told the court that Renouf was intercepted during a routine licence check on Windsor Rd at Red Hill about 10.45pm on July 1 while driving a white Kia K4.
Renouf, who scored 142 tries in 183 appearances for the Broncos, returned a positive roadside breath test. Steve Renouf has pleaded guilty to high-range drink-driving. NewsWire / Andrew Hedgman Credit: NewsWire
Ms D'Odorico said police instructed him to remain in the vehicle but he exited and told officers, 'You've got me, I'm drunk.'
He was described as unsteady on his feet, slurring his words, and dropping his personal belongings. He later returned a blood alcohol reading of 0.197 per cent.
When informed he would need to accompany police to the station, Renouf said 'No, no, no' and attempted to walk away, prompting officers to place him in handcuffs, the court was told.
He was then taken to the Brisbane City Watchhouse for further testing.
Renouf's licence was immediately suspended and he was charged with one count of driving under the influence of liquor.
During the hearing, Renouf's solicitor, Angelo Venardos, presented several character references, including one from his former Broncos coach Wayne Bennett, and told the court the former Maroons star had no recollection of the night. Renouf was 'ashamed and embarrassed', his lawyer said. Picture, John Gass Credit: News Corp Australia
Mr Venardos said Renouf had been socialising with friends before making the decision to drive despite usually relying on taxis or Ubers to get home.
He said Renouf was pulled over outside his own residence and had been trying to walk back into his house when he got out of his car.
The court was also told Renouf had a hypoglycaemic episode at the scene, prompting officers to provide jelly beans and call his partner for advice on how to manage his health.
'He's ashamed and embarrassed,' Mr Venardos said.
'He's clearly owning what he's doing … he knows he's a role model.
'He's had an enormous impact on the community … particularly (in) the Indigenous community.'
It was the first time Renouf had appeared before a court, and the magistrate acknowledged his co-operation with police.
'He actually advised them that he was drunk and they got him,' she said.
'He has very favourable references.' He was fined $1200 and disqualified from driving for 11 months. Steve Pohlner Credit: News Corp Australia
The court was told Renouf had never previously lost his licence and a recorded conviction could jeopardise his ability to travel internationally for work.
'A conviction may affect getting a visa in some places,' the magistrate said.
Renouf was fined $1200 and disqualified from driving for 11 months. No conviction was recorded.
After his court appearance, Renouf fronted the waiting media and spoke for more than five minutes, describing the experience as 'humbling' and said he accepted full responsibility for his actions.
While he said he didn't believe he struggled with alcohol, he planned to see a doctor 'to see where I'm at' and get professional advice.
He also took the opportunity to thank the Queensland Police Service for their kindness during the incident, particularly in helping him manage a diabetic episode.
'I couldn't do what they do,' he said.
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