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Ex-Australian Opener Gets 4-Year Sentence For Domestic Violence But Released After 1 Year

Jatin

Michael Slater sentenced to four years [Source: @ICC/x.com]Michael Slater sentenced to four years [Source: @ICC/x.com]

Once known for his explosive starts at the top of the order, former Australian cricketer-turned-commentator Michael Slater is now making headlines for all the wrong reasons. On Tuesday, Slater was sentenced to four years in prison after pleading guilty to a string of serious charges including domestic violence, unlawful stalking, assault and even choking.

Michael Slater Sentenced To Four Years But Walks Free After Serving Time In Custody

However, in a surprising turn, the 55-year-old walked out of court a free man. Yes, the sentence was partly suspended, thanks to the 375 days he had already spent behind bars.

Michael Slater wasn’t dealing with just one or two charges. We are talking over a dozen, including:

  • Domestic violence
  • Unlawful stalking or intimidation
  • Breaking into a dwelling with intent at night
  • Common assault
  • Assault occasioning bodily harm
  • Choking or suffocation

It was a laundry list of serious offences. The court heard that alcohol played a big part in all of it. According to the prosecution, booze had become a pattern in Slater’s life and every time, it pushed him into darker territory.

“Alcoholism Is Part Of Your Makeup”: Judge

Judge Glen Cash didn’t mince words. He acknowledged Slater’s early guilty plea and the remorse he had shown but still made it clear that this won’t be a walk in the park.

“Your rehabilitation will not be easy — alcoholism is part of your make up,” the judge told him.

The prosecution had pushed for a five-year sentence with parole after three. But Slater’s lawyer argued for a lighter sentence, stating that the choking incident wasn’t at the most serious level. He also highlighted that Slater had been “calm, lucid and insightful” during his time in custody and had stayed off alcohol.

Cricket Career Overshadowed By Off-Field Chaos

Michael Slater was once one of Australia’s most attacking openers. Between 1993 and 2003, he played 74 Tests and 42 ODIs, racking up runs and entertaining fans across the globe. Post-retirement, he made a smooth transition to commentary but off the field, things started to spiral.

The limelight shifted from his commentary box to courtroom updates, rehab stints and police run-ins. It has been a steady downfall for someone who was once part of Australia’s golden era of cricket.