On March 10, 2025, domestic violence charges against former Penrith Panthers winger Taylan May were officially withdrawn, clearing the way for his immediate return to the NRL. This development follows May being stood down under the NRL's no-fault policy since the allegations surfaced last year.
May, 23, had faced serious charges, including assault occasioning actual bodily harm, stemming from allegations he punched his wife, Jess May, during incidents reported in April and May of 2024. According to court proceedings, he was accused not only of inflicting physical harm but also of making alarming statements such as, “I hate you so much I wouldn’t care if I killed you.”
After failing to appear at court on Monday, neither Jess May nor her sister were present, which led Magistrate Stephen Corry to imply their absence suggested deliberate choices not to testify. With the prosecutor unable to proceed without key witnesses, the charges against Taylan May were dropped.
“Now there’s no pending charge, he’s free to play,” stated Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) chair Peter V’landys, highlighting the end of the no-fault stand-down period due to the withdrawal of police charges. The policy is grounded on the necessity for players to be charged to remain stood down from the field.
Having played 30 games for the Penrith Panthers, May's career had faced turbulence following the laying of charges, resulting in his contract being terminated under questionable conditions after he threatened to sue the club. Following his stand-down, discussions around signing May were reignited after his release from the Panthers earlier this month.
The interest from several NRL clubs, particularly concerning May's potential move to the Wests Tigers, has been noted, especially after his brother Terrell May joined the team, creating speculation about the brothers playing together. Taylan observed Terrell’s debut at Campbelltown Stadium shortly before his court appearance.
Despite the withdrawal of the charges, Taylan continues to be subject to an apprehended violence order (AVO) for six additional months. This order necessitates him to adhere to strict conditions, including avoiding contact with Jess May, though recent events seem to indicate her willingness to see those conditions altered, having expressed desires to drop charges since July 2024.
Taylan May, who has been sidelined for nearly one year, remains eager to return to his promising rugby league career, known for possessing significant talent as one of the standout outside backs prior to the legal troubles. “He’s been stopped six times by police in the last 24 hours,” detailed his barrister, Phillip Boulten SC, emphasizing the level of scrutiny he faced leading up to the court date.
The NRL integrity unit was present during the court proceedings, closely observing the developments, as discussions continue among clubs about his re-entry onto the field following the legal resolution. This incident highlights a point of contention within sporting codes, emphasizing the balance between ensuring player conduct and allowing players to return to the game after their cases are resolved.
Upon leaving the court, Taylan did not provide comments but left with supporters, showcasing visible relief following the day's outcome.
Overall, Taylan May's return could offer him not only redemption on the field but also provide the NRL with examples of how they navigate such serious accusations against their players moving forward, confirming their stance against violence yet allowing cleared individuals to return to sport.