Section 32 Granted on Multiple Drug Offences

PW was charged with one count of ‘Supply prohibited drug’, contrary to s 25(1) Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 and two counts of ‘Possess prohibited drug’, namely methylamphetamine and gamma butyrolactone, contrary to s 10(1) Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985.

Chris Cole and Bill O’Brien represented PW in these matters. PW plead guilty to both counts of ‘Possess prohibited drug’, and the charge of ‘Supply prohibited drug’ was withdrawn.

A Section 32 Application was made and subsequently listed for Hearing at the Downing Centre Local Court. In support of the Application Bill O’Brien tendered extensive materials and made oral submissions on PW’s behalf.

Ultimately, Her Honour allowed PW’s matter to be diverted away from the criminal justice system and dismissed the charges pursuant to s 32 Mental Health (Forensic Provisions) Act 1990, upon the condition PW comply with a supervised treatment plan.  

This is a very pleasing result.

Successful Supreme Court Release Application, Released on Bail

DF was charged with 15 drug-related offences, including ‘Supply Large Commercial Quantity’ methylamphetamine, as well as proceeds of crime. DF had spent the last 5 months in custody on remand. Chris Cole submitted a Supreme Court Release Application on DF’s behalf.

Chris Cole appeared with Michael Finnane QC at the Supreme Court on her Release Application. The Crown opposed Bail, noting the ‘show cause’ requirement. The matter was adjourned to allow the Judge to consider the material and submissions.

The following day, His Honour gave his decision on the Release Application. His Honour determined that DF had ‘shown cause’ as to why her continued detention was not justified and that conditions could be imposed to ameliorate any Bail risks. Accordingly, DF was granted conditional Bail.

This is a very pleasing result which has allowed DF to return to her family home where she is able to care for her mother and young children whilst awaiting Trial.

Charged with 4 Drug-related Offences, Bail Granted

SV is charged with four offences-- two counts of ‘Supply Prohibited Drug’, ‘Deal with proceeds of crime’ and ‘conduct drug premises while child present’.

Chris Cole represented SV on his release application at Penrith Local Court. He made submissions and tendered documents supporting why SV needs to be released from custody including a letter from SV’s wife. His Honour granted bail with strict but reasonable conditions.

This result is great for SV as not everyone charged with the same type of offences is granted bail.