Feb 06, 2024

Older man gets 12 years in prison for importing meth

resize
The traveller attempted to conceal 18.55kg of crystal methamphetamine in the shoeboxes, which had an estimated street value of more than $17 million. [Source: AFP]

A 78-year-old Canadian national has been sentenced to 12 years in prison by the County Court of Victoria on February 2, for importing over 18kg of methamphetamine through Melbourne Airport in 2022.

The offender was arrested in June 2022 by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) after Australian Border Force (ABF) officers found seven shoeboxes with the contraband concealed within his suitcase. 

In a press release, the AFP said that the man had hidden 18.55kg of crystal methamphetamine in his luggage, which had an estimated street value of more than $17 million.

He pleaded guilty in April 2023 at a hearing where he was charged with importing a commercial quantity of a border-controlled drug, contrary to section 307.1 of the Criminal Code 1995 (Cth).

AFP Detective Superintendent Simone Butcher said, “The risk of spending significant time in jail – particularly for a foreign national who may be a long way from their family and friends – far outweighs the potential financial gains of importing illicit drugs into Australia.” 

ABF Acting Superintendent Ian Beasant said it was likely the passenger thought concealing methamphetamine in shoeboxes would go undetected.

“Our officers have seen every trick in the book with passengers thinking they can outsmart our officers, and this man is now paying a very heavy price for that misconception,” he said.

Det-Supt Butcher said she hoped the case sent a strong warning to people about the consequences of attempting to smuggle illicit drugs into Australia.

 

For free and confidential advice about alcohol and other drug treatment services call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015
Access free 24/7 drug and alcohol counselling online
For information about drug and alcohol addiction treatment or support, go to Turning Point.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

Grandmother on Trial for Alleged Abuse of 13-Year-Old Grandson

A Hobart grandmother is accused of going too far with her discipline. The court has heard claims of cruel punishments and controlling behaviour towards her 13-year-old grandson. Read More

More support needed as dementia now leading cause of disease burden in older Australians

Dementia has overtaken coronary heart disease as the leading cause of disease burden among Australians aged 65 and over, with key dementia consumer groups highlighting the need for improved care and support for people impacted by the condition. Read More

Aged care worker pleads guilty to neglecting her elderly mother

A Geelong aged care worker, in what seems to be a case of extreme carer burnout, has been found guilty of failing to provide care to her elderly mother. Read More
Advertisement