Details of ASADA messages to Essendon supplements probe emerge Sports scientist Stephen Dank spearheaded Essendon's supplement program in 2012. DETAILS have emerged of undertakings given by ASADA to Essendon in the early days of its drugs investigation. A document obtained by the Herald Sun outlines key messages given to the Bombers by the investigators, including that a "no-fault defence" could apply in their case. Less than two weeks after the Australian Crime Commission released its report into drugs in sport and organised crime on February 7, the Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority document was sent to Essendon players after top-level talks with the AFL. Dated February 20, it informs the players, some who are alleged to have received multiple injections of AOD-9604, about their chances of receiving "a complete elimination of sanction" pursuant to the no-fault defence, should they confess knowledge. The document also states: "The AFL understands that the investigation is likely to be protracted, complex and lengthy. ASADA will explain to the players that these are exceptional circumstances and the defence of no fault or negligence may be available. It will be explained to the players that under a no-fault or negligence defence, a player can receive a complete elimination of sanction. Where a player does come forward and provides a sworn statement regarding his involvement or the involvement of any other person, ASADA and the AFL will fully explore all avenues in an attempt to provide a no-fault or negligence defence or substantial assistance. ASADA agrees that a significant contributing factor in the consideration of a no-fault or negligence defence, will be the extent to which players knew or suspected they had used prohibited substances at the instigation of sports science staff and took utmost caution in relation to the treatments they were receiving. The AFL Anti-Doping Code notes no fault or negligence defences apply to sanctions only, not to determination of whether a violation has occurred.