Aussie Olympian Nathan Baggaley and Brother Dru Handed Prison Terms for $200M Drug Attempt
An Olympic silver medallist, Nathan Baggaley, and his brother Dru have received new sentences for attempting to import cocaine valued at approximately $200 million. Nathan has been sentenced to 13 years, while Dru received 15 years. Both are now eligible for parole after serving their time. The court found insufficient evidence that Dru was aware he was importing cocaine, believing instead he was collecting tobacco. Justice Kelly noted the transition in knowledge regarding the drug's identity for both brothers during their involvement.
Nathan and Dru Baggaley, brothers involved in a high-profile drug importation case, have received reduced sentences and are now eligible for parole following their guilty pleas related to a significant cocaine smuggling attempt valued at approximately $200 million. The court proceedings revealed critical details about their actions and intentions.
Details of the Drug Importation Case
In July 2018, Nathan and Dru Baggaley were intercepted by the navy while attempting to import a substantial quantity of cocaine. The brothers used a seven-metre inflatable boat to retrieve 650kg of cocaine from a vessel situated 360km off the eastern coast of Australia. During the operation, navy surveillance captured Dru Baggaley discarding parcels into the ocean, with some eventually washing ashore at various locations along the coast.
Sentencing Outcomes for the Baggaley Brothers
The Brisbane Supreme Court, presided over by Justice Declan Kelly, sentenced Nathan Baggaley to 13 years in prison while his brother received a 15-year sentence. Following the completion of a specified duration in jail, the brothers are eligible for parole after serving 1964 and 2287 days, respectively. This sentencing comes after the brothers had previously won appeals against their initial convictions, leading to a retrial set to commence on October 28.
Court Findings on Knowledge and Intent
During the sentencing, Justice Kelly emphasized that there was inadequate evidence to prove Dru Baggaley was aware he was involved in the importation of cocaine, asserting that he believed he was merely collecting tobacco. The judge described Dru’s actions as reckless, acknowledging the significant quantity of a controlled substance involved. Justice Kelly also noted that Nathan Baggaley was initially unaware of the drug importation but became cognizant of the operation's details by July 30, 2018. However, he could not definitively prove Nathan knew the specific drug or its amount beforehand.
Background on Nathan Baggaley's Athletic Achievements
Nathan Baggaley is a former Olympic athlete, having secured two silver medals at the 2004 Athens Olympics, alongside three world championship titles. His involvement in the drug importation case has drawn considerable media attention, contrasting sharply with his previously celebrated sports career.
