Raiders recruit Curtis Scott will be free to play in round one of the 2020 season after the NRL announced on Wednesday he would not be subject to the league's no-fault stand down policy.
In a statement, the NRL said the decision should not be interpreted as a view on Scott’s innocence or guilt.
"Scott's charges carry a maximum five years imprisonment and do not qualify for an automatic no-fault stand down. Having considered the charges against Scott, the NRL has determined that he should not be prevented from playing whilst he responds to them," the statement said.
"The NRL regards the charges as extremely serious and the Raiders have been advised Scott will face a significant penalty if found guilty of the charges."
Scott has pleaded not guilty to seven charges in court following his arrest after an incident with police on January 27.
His case is next due for mention at the Downing Centre on March 20, a week after the Raiders' season kicks off against the Titans in Canberra.
Scott is likely to line up at centre for Ricky Stuart's team when the Raiders host the Gold Coast Titans on March 13.
