Essendon defender Courtenay Dempsey had contacted Victorian Police and could press charges against a social media user who he alleges racially abused him with a homophobic and suicide-related comment.

Essendon released a statement on Monday confirming the incident that allegedly took place shortly after the conclusion of Saturday night's Essendon-Richmond AFL match at the MCG.

Taking a stand: Courtenay Dempsey Credit:Pat Scala

During the game, Dempsey laid a "sling" tackle on Tigers star Brett Deledio – an incident that has been referred straight to the tribunal after the match review panel deemed his conduct to be "careless" and the impact to the head "severe".