By CAM LUCADOU-WELLS
A MAN has been bailed to residential rehab after being allegedly caught trafficking heroin and ice nine days into a community corrections order.
Tom Ki, 37, was allegedly spotted by a police officer dropping a cloth bag out of the driver’s side of his car in Arthur Court, Noble Park on 12 May, a court was told.
Sergeant Mick Hughes, of Springvale police, told Dandenong Magistrates’ Court on 30 May that he intercepted Ki and discovered ice and heroin wrapped in deal bags and foils in the bag.
On Ki’s phone, the term “hot and cold” found in texts was a reference to trafficking heroin and ice, Sgt Hughes told the court.
Ki – who denied he owned or threw out the bag and drugs – had no criminal record until he was arrested for drug trafficking last year, the court was told.
“He appears to be a nice kid,” Sgt Hughes said.
“If he’s released straight into the community, he’ll just continue dealing and using drugs. I’ve no doubt about that whatsoever.”
A close relative of Ki testified that she’d take the accused straight to rehab – if he was released on bail.
She told the court Ki was the “most amazing, caring, wonderful person” who had been “broken into pieces” by his marriage breakdown and separation from his children.
Ki had dreams of going back to school and opening his own business, she said.
“He would never hurt anyone. He loves his family dearly.”
Magistrate Jack Vandersteen noted the strong prosecution case but Ki had a placement in the costly rehab program, a supportive family and a limited criminal history.
Ki’s 18 days in custody had been long enough to dry out. Any longer in jail would have a lesser deterrent effect, Mr Vandersteen said.
“(The rehab program) is only accessible by people with money behind them. I get the impression (Ki’s relative) is paying for this.
“It won’t be an easy ride. You will be surrounded by people who are experts in drug addiction and relapse prevention.”
Ki was bailed on condition he complied with the lawful directions of the rehab centre’s staff, and presented a report from the rehab centre to the court on 30 June.
Mr Vandersteen said he wanted to know if the centre would extend Ki’s stay beyond that date or continue treating him as an outpatient.
