UPDATE: Former NBL player Jackson Makoi has been cleared of all domestic violence charges after a critical court ruling today. The Cairns Taipans guard, also known as Anyiarbany Makoi, faced serious allegations of assault and choking a woman but has now been exonerated.
In a developing situation at Blacktown Local Court, the charges were dismissed after the complainant failed to appear for the second time. Makoi had been contesting one count of common assault and two counts of recklessly choking a person. His attorney, Peter Agoth, stated, “Jackson’s had his date in court. He was able to have everything dismissed.”
The incident that led to these charges was alleged to have occurred on November 11, 2023, in western Sydney while Makoi was under contract with the Sydney Kings. Following the allegations, he was stood down by the Cairns Taipans, and his contract has since expired. Although he is not on the team roster for the upcoming season, sources suggest he has multiple opportunities on the horizon.
To resolve the situation, Makoi agreed to an apprehended violence order without admitting guilt, which was accepted by the prosecution. This order includes standard conditions prohibiting him from assaulting, threatening, or stalking the complainant or anyone she is in a relationship with. Agoth noted that the charges had been a “huge impediment” to Makoi’s life and that he is now relieved to move forward.
“He did stick to what he said from the start, which is ‘I didn’t do this’,” Agoth added. “He was very happy it’s finally behind him and he can finally move on with his life.”
Makoi, who has previously played for South Sudan at the Paris Olympics, averaged 4.1 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists in 11 NBL games last season. He made his mark in the league after signing with the Kings as a development player in 2022 and contributed to the club’s championship-winning campaign before suffering a serious knee injury.
This news comes as a significant relief not only for Makoi but also for his supporters and the basketball community. The immediate future looks promising for the young athlete, who is eager to put this chapter behind him.
For those affected by domestic violence, help is available. Contact 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732, Lifeline at 13 11 14, or the Men’s Referral Service at 1300 766 491.
