It's an unfortunate situation all round.
Personally I feel that Gaff was intending for a punch to the side of chest like what happens normally during a game. However, he misjudged terribly and hit Brayshaw square in the face. There's no doubt in my mind that Gaff was not intending to harm Brayshaw. As many have pointed out it's out of his character and his good record proves this. However, what does concern me is the force with which he hit with. Breaking a jaw and displacing teeth requires some amount of force. Even if he missed his face that would have caused some damage had it hit the chest or ribs. Typical in game jabs aren't swung with that amount of force. I really don't know why he would have so much strength behind what should have been a small "jumper punch"?
I don't think his career should be tarnished over this. However, no one forgets and the facts are that Gaff will be remembered by that punch that put Brayshaw in hospital. There's no way he is going to jail. Those calls are absurd. Criminal chargers? Well as
Malifice pointed out, it's highly unlikely. I think the AFL sanctions and any imposed by West Coast should be enough. I would however expect Gaff to apologise in person to Gaff and his family and help Brayshaw with whatever he needs to get back out there on the field.
In regard to West Coast fans applauding Gaff, I feel that maybe a small minority (
and a very small one at that) may have applauded what Gaff did. However, the majority of West Coast fans were oblivious to what had happened as has been pointed out early saw on the big screen Gaff emotionally distraught on the bench. This likely brought on the cheers etc. I'm giving the benefit of the doubt to the West Coast fans here. No one in their right mind applauds assault. Only a small handful of idiots would.
What's the penalty? Well I think around 6-8 weeks is fair here. Despite his good record, the AFL have to make a stand firm and stamp Gaff out for the remainder of the year.
There's no way he is playing again in 2018 when he just put a kid in hospital. Unfortunate for Gaff, but the onus is on him. He has to take full responsiblity for this take the penalty.
I will say one more thing. People screaming on social media for Gaff's head are ****en idiots. Calm the **** down and put down the keyboard. The bloke made a terrible mistake. Let's not burn him at the stake.
All the best to Brayshaw and his family. Also, I hope Gaff's mental health is looked after. Learn from your mistakes and make the changes necessary.