Cats premiership forward Mathew Stokes has been banished from the Geelong Football Club until further notice after being arrested and charged for trafficking and possessing a drug of dependence on Wednesday.
Geelong chief Brian Cook confirmed in a statement that Stokes, who has been released on bail after appearing in Geelong Magistrates' Court, has been stood down as the club attempts 'to gather all the facts of this matter'.
Stokes is believed to have been in possession of one gram of cocaine, which he claims he did not consume and was bought for friends visiting from Darwin, and is scheduled to reappear in court on March 12.
"We're disappointed by the turn of events today," said Cook.
"Given the gravity of the charges we have decided that Mathew will be stood down from all club activity as we attempt to gather all the facts of this matter."
"This is not a rush to judgment but a reflection on the seriousness of the situation."
"It is important for Mathew that he deals with legal issues at hand as his first priority."
"As we have in the past, the club will not rush to formulate a long-term determination of any penalty."
"Mathew is obviously very upset by what has happened and we'll give him a little time to gather his thoughts and then we'll sit down with him and work through the situation."
"The club has been in contact with the AFL throughout the day to ensure that they have been kept informed."
Stokes, whose arrest comes after a lengthy drug investigation in the Geelong area by police, has apparently been very helpful with police inquiries.
No other Geelong players are currently believed to be under investigation, according to acting detective inspector Michael Baker.
"Earlier today investigators from Geelong regional response unit attended an address in Geelong. At that address they arrested Mathew Stokes," Baker said.
"He was taken back to his home address and that was searched under the powers of a search warrant, Mr. Stokes was subsequently returned to the Geelong police station where he was interviewed."
"As a result of that interview he has been charged with possessing a drug of dependence and trafficking a drug of dependence, namely cocaine, and as you're aware he was deported from Geelong Magistrates' Court on bail."
Stokes' arrest followed a series of recent drug raids in Geelong with police seizing more than $3000 in cash and about $50,000 worth of drugs from four properties last Friday.
Stokes has played 71 games and kicked 108 goals for the Cats since his AFL debut in 2006.
The reigning premiers begin their 2010 season on February 21 when they take on North Melbourne in the first round of the NAB Cup.