The Queen v CM
CM was charged with one count of 'possess prohibited drug' contrary to the Crimes Act 1900.
The facts involved CM attending the Randwick Races with a group of friends, and alerting the suspicions of police officers by entering a public toilet together as a group. Police stopped CM as she attempted to exit the bathroom and located one gram of cocaine in her handbag.
Bill O'Brien represented CM, and the matter came before Waverley Local Court. The presiding magistrate accepted submissions of CM's high moral character, as well as the great lengths she had taken to overcome this error or judgment in both her personal and professional life.
The magistrate saw merit in CM and dismissed the charge against her, placing her instead on a Good Behaviour Bond pursuant to section 10(1)(b) of the Crimes (Sentencing Procedure) Act 1999. This was a great result for CM as she was able to maintain her employment and continue her plans to study in Canada.