Taranaki rugby player arrested over assault

Taranaki rugby player Paul Perez is in further trouble, which could spell an end to his playing career.

The 23-year-old was last month found guilty of three domestic violence charges after choking and punching his pregnant partner in May.

He was arrested on Friday night after allegedly going to a man's house and assaulting him, the Taranaki Daily News reported.

Perez was scheduled to appear in New Plymouth District Court tomorrow, where his lawyer planned to apply for a discharge without conviction.

Taranaki Rugby Football Union chief executive Mark Robinson said the latest alleged incident was "hugely disappointing" and the union was treating it seriously.

"We're very supportive of Paul and we're doing all we can for him. But, if it's a serious enough issue, we may be forced to consider his future with the union."

Perez had also been stopped by police for driving without a licence on October 10.

He admitted to the charge in court on November 23 and was remanded until January 22 to get his full driver's licence.

- NZPA