There are lots of variables here.
I'm not sure how the burden of proof falls in disciplinary.
The first decision will be what he is charged with -
Forearm is more lenient ; reckless is more lenient:
B-C Strikes with hand, arm or shoulder – reckless
C-D Strikes with hand, arm or shoulder – intentional
Elbow is worse (obviously) as is intent.
C Strikes with elbow – ball carrier – reckless
E-F Strikes with elbow – ball carrier – intentional
His other problem will be with aggravating factors:
Previous Record - I'm not sure of his past record
Violence - No place for acts of intentional violence or thuggery.
− Includes head butting, vicious attacks with fists,
intentional high tackles, kicking a prone opponent, an assault on an opponent from behind, gouging.
− Unprovoked violent assaults punished severely &
period suspensions considered.Retaliation - wasn't an act of retaliation
Injury caused - If the Misconduct has caused injury to an opponent, this may result in a higher penalty than if no injury had occurred.
− Panels may consider the length of time an injured opponent is likely to be out of the game when passing sentence.
Incident not part of play
Other aggravating factors
It is all about
intent.If the panel proves intent (or if Chase fails to prove recklessness) then we are into 3 or 4 month bans rather than 3 or 4 matches...
They will take length of injury into account as well.
