Rugby stars Ali Williams, James O'Connor arrested in Paris

By SAMUEL PETREQUIN - AP Sports Writer 26 February 2017, 12:00AM

PARIS (AP) — Former All Black lock Ali Williams and former Australia back James O'Connor have been arrested in Paris after allegedly trying to buy cocaine near a nightclub.

Confirming media reports, the Paris prosecutor's office said Williams and O'Connor were arrested around 3 a.m. local time on Saturday.

Williams, who won the 2011 World Cup with New Zealand, currently plays with French club Racing 92.

Racing 92 later said in a statement that Williams has been suspended as a precautionary measure and it also apologized to fans for the incident.

"If the investigation confirms (Williams') possession of cocaine and the transaction, it would not only be a crime under the law but also a serious mistake in view of our ethics," said the club, while adding that Williams deserved the presumption of innocence.

O'Connor is contracted to another Top 14 club, Toulon. There was no immediate comment from the southern side.

The arrests came only days after another former All Black, Dan Carter, was forced to apologize for "a massive error of judgment" after he allegedly failed a drink-driving test in France.

Carter also plays for Racing 92, the defending French champions.

By SAMUEL PETREQUIN - AP Sports Writer 26 February 2017, 12:00AM
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