EXCLUSIVE: AFL Great Stephen Silvagni Breaks Down in Tears Outside Court, Insisting Convicted Rapist Son Tom Is Innocent
In an emotional scene that has shocked the Australian sporting world, AFL legend Stephen Silvagni broke down in tears outside the Victorian County Court on December 12, 2025, as he publicly declared his son Tom Silvagni‘s innocence following the 23-year-old’s rape conviction.
abc.net.au
sen.com.au
theaustralian.com.au
theaustralian.com.au
“Jo and I, together with our family… are so disappointed with the outcome,” a visibly distraught Stephen said, his voice cracking. “Our son continues to maintain his innocence, and we stand firmly behind him. Our goal is to clear his name and bring him home.” The family has flagged a potential appeal.
abc.net.au
canberratimes.com.au
Just days later, on December 17, Tom was sentenced to six years and two months in prison (eligible for parole after three years and three months) for digitally raping a woman twice in his family’s Balwyn North home on January 14, 2024. Judge Gregory Lyon described the acts as “egregious, callous, and appalling,” involving deception and a forged Uber receipt cover-up, with no remorse shown.
abc.net.au
abc.net.au
news.com.au
The victim’s powerful impact statement haunted the court: “Tom Silvagni, you raped me. Not once, but twice… This trauma lives with me every single day.” Post-sentencing, Jo Silvagni was seen pushing away reporters.
theaustralian.com.au
youtube.com
Public backlash has been fierce, with many criticizing the family’s lack of empathy for the survivor amid the high-profile case. As Australia grapples with these revelations, the Silvagni name – once synonymous with AFL glory – faces lasting scrutiny. 💔
Full coverage: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-12-17/tom-silvagni-rape-court-sentencing/106149996
