Bendigo man charged with guns and drugs months after prison release
James Grose, 31, faces drug and gun charges. Police discovered firearms and methamphetamine at his Bendigo home.
In November 2025, police went to James Grose's home in California Gully. They were serving a firearms prohibition order.
They found methamphetamine and butanediol. A later search found a homemade pistol, a firearm breech, and a dagger.
Grose admitted to dealing methamphetamine to pay bills. He pleaded guilty to possessing drugs and firearms without a permit.
The magistrate noted his past. He had been jailed for 14 months in 2024.
He then 'walked out of prison.' Within about seven months, he reoffended.
A report checked Grose's mental health. It found an intellectual disability, anxiety, and depression.
It also found he has a substance use disorder. He has used methamphetamine and heroin since age 25.
Sentencing was adjourned to September 18.
- James Grose, 31
- Man charged
- November 21, 2025
- First police search
- 14 months, starting May 2024
- Prison sentence
- About seven months after release
- Time to reoffence
Why it mattersHe reoffended soon after release. This raises questions about rehabilitation for people with complex needs.
AustraliaHighlights challenges Victoria's courts face with repeat offenders who cycle between prison and reoffending despite previous sentences.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 8 d ago
