Facts
The Rugby Football Union (RFU) appeals against the decision, dated March 3, 2014, of the Disciplinary Panel of the RFU. The Disciplinary Panel by a majority had dismissed the charges brought against Clive Peters, the athlete. The charges arose following an investigation into Peters by Gwent Police. The criminal investigation did not result in a conviction.
History
The appeal was on the grounds of that the disciplinary panel: (a) Came to a decision to which no reasonable body could have come; (b) Made an error of law in reaching its decision.
The athlete was charged with two offences of possession and trafficking anabolic steroids. No issue was raised at the disciplinary hearing, or on appeal, as to whether possession of prohibited substances, if proved, was in connection with players or training. There was overwhelming evidence for trafficking, along with his son, in anabolic steroids.
Decision
The appeal panel determines that the sanction to be imposed in accordance with International Rugby Board (IRB) regulations is a period of ineligibility of 8 years commencing on November 30, 2012.
