By ALANA MITCHELSON
A Breakwater man has been refused bail over alleged drug trafficking after he was found with prohibited weapons and a “large amount” of stolen goods.
Police found Bradford King, 26, “drowsy” in the passenger seat of a station wagon parked at Breakwater on 12 January, prosecutor Leading Senior Constable Kylie Jane told Geelong Magistrates Court yesterday (Wednesday).
“A welfare check was performed and Mr Bradford was found to be in possession of GHB.”
Text messages on the accused’s phone revealed discussion about the alleged trafficking of GHB, ecstacy and cannabis, the court heard.
Informant Senior Constable Robin Johnson told the court Mr King refused to comment in an interview at Waurn Ponds Police Station.
A search of his Breakwater residence revealed a shed containing various drugs, $3215 in cash and about 180 stolen items, valued at $150,000.
“These include a motorcycle, jet ski, chainsaws, jackhammers and welders,” Sen Const Johnson said.
“A number of prohibited weapons were located, including knuckle dusters in his backpack.”
Mr King’s barrister, Richard Backwell, said his client should be bailed while police tested the alleged drugs, which could take “in excess of six months”.
“I submit that stable accommodation, a recent offer of employment and acknowledgement of the two months already spent in custody as cause for the granting of bail.“
Magistrate Peter Mellas described the prosecution’s case as “relatively strong”.
“The prosecution’s submission exposes the alleged trafficking of quite harmful drugs and the commerical transacting of property in exchange for those drugs,” he said.
“Mr King’s prior history is peppered with instances of failing to comply with court orders, such as breaching an intervention order, therefore there is a significant risk of him not complying with bail.
“I don’t think accommodation at the proposed household is appropriate in the circumstances of the resident being a full-time carer for his mother. I also don’t think I can rely on the offer of employment letter as cause for bail.”
Mr Mellas refused bail and adjourned the case for a contested mention on 26 April.
