The offender was sentenced following a plea of guilty to 1 count of aiding and abetting in an attempt to possess a commercial quantity of an unlawfully imported border-controlled drug contrary to ss 11.1(1), 11.2(1) and 307.5(1) of the Commonwealth Criminal Code. Offender was also sentenced for a State drug offence. Offending related to 149.3 kilograms of pure cocaine.
Nature and Circumstances: Offender intended that their conduct would assist others to possess the cocaine. Offender’s acceptance of the consignment assisted others to distance themselves from it. Offender was not a principal of the syndicate and acted as directed. They were a trusted participant. Offender had some knowledge of what was to occur and accordingly their conduct involved some planning and pre-meditation. The quantity of the drug was substantial being about 74 times the commercial quantity. Offender must have been aware that they were aiding and abetting in an attempt to possess a substantial quantity of drugs with significant value.
Specific Deterrence: There is a need for specific deterrence. Offender has spent some time in custody for a serious offence involving the manufacture of a large commercial quantity of prohibited drugs. However, the offender has accepted responsibility of their actions and embarked on a genuine process of rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation: Offender has a stable relationship and good social support. Offender has completed courses in custody and engages in meaningful work. Offender is getting to an age where, on release, the pro-social features of their life will outweigh the anti-social features.
Offender sentenced to 9 years imprisonment with a non-parole period of 5 years.
