Convicted drug trafficker fights $40k cash seizure claim
A Devonport man convicted of drug trafficking argues that $40,790 police found came from his tattoo business, not drugs.
Mark Raymond Roland, 57, was found guilty in August of trafficking methamphetamine, cocaine and cannabis. Police found $40,790 in one search of his home, along with drugs and firearms.
Roland's lawyer argued the money came from his tattoo business. Bank statements backed this claim.
The judge was sceptical. Police had found drugs sent to his address in February.
He said a visitor left them. Justice Tamara Jago will sentence Roland on September 30.
This is his third drug trafficking conviction.
Why it mattersShows how courts check if seized money came from crime or business, even when bank records suggest otherwise.
AustraliaIllustrates how Australian authorities pursue asset forfeiture in drug cases alongside criminal penalties.
Corroborated bytheadvocate.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 6 d ago
