Former Olympic lightweight professional boxer, Michael Katsidis, is set to be released from jail after pleading guilty to drug trafficking charges.
According to ABC News, the Brisbane District Court heard on Thursday that 43-year-old Katsidis was on parole after being jailed for earlier drug offenses in 2021 when he joined a “sophisticated” cocaine network.
Police raided a safe house on the Gold Coast back in 2022, where Katsidis was known to spend a few nights every week. More than 8 grams of cocaine and $42,850 in cash was discovered inside the home’s safe.
Katsidis’ barrister, Wayne Tolton, told the court on Thursday that his client’s life spiralled out of control after his brother, Stathi Katsidis, who was regarded as one of Australia’s best jockeys, died in 2010.
“He’s had 22 months almost to reflect upon the stupidity of his actions. He bitterly regrets his conduct. He’s embarrassed, ashamed, but more importantly, determined to turn his life around,” Tolton said.
Justice Muir Catherine Muir had sentenced Katsidis to four years and six months in prison, but having already served more than 660 days in custody, Katsidis was dealt a suspended sentence and granted release.
“You have had, it seems, a drug addiction since 2010 when your brother passed away,” Justice Muir Catherine Muir said in court.
“…If you step out of line and commit an offence punishable by imprisonment, you can expect to be back in custody.”
As a condition of his release, Katsidis cannot commit another offence within the next five years.
Source: ABC News
