Content Warning: This article about Jarryd Hayne discusses sexual assault. If you or someone you know is affected by the following story, you are not alone. To speak to someone, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
Former professional rugby league player Jarryd Hayne has been sentenced to five years and nine months in jail for the sexual assault of a woman in 2018.
Three years and 8 months of his sentence will serve as a non-parole period.
The 33-year-old was found guilty in March of the sexual assault of the then 26-year-old woman at her Newcastle home following the grand final in September 2018.
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Speaking at the hearing, the victim spoke of the ongoing impact the crime has had on her life.
“I have spent countless hours crying, the feeling of violation and feeling dirty doesn’t go away. I have nightmares and flashbacks of his face looking right through me,” the now 28-year-old said.
“Sometimes I can’t get out of bed.”
The woman, who can’t be named, described feelings of anger, frustration, and wanting to die.
“What I experienced was horrible, nobody should ever have to feel that way. I am destroyed and damaged but I am still standing,” she explained.
“I am destroyed and damaged but I am still standing.”
“Your body remembers and your mind doesn’t forget. I survived this and I have protected a tiny spark of my life.”
During the hearing, it was also revealed that Haynes kept a taxi waiting while he went inside the victim’s house and assaulted her before heading back to Sydney.
The former footy star has categorically denied the allegations, saying the encounter was entirely consensual.
