Brent Guerin Sentenced for Burglary and Drug Trafficking
Brent Guerin, a 37-year-old Canberra man, has been sentenced to eight years in prison in the ACT Supreme Court for a series of burglaries and drug trafficking offences. The court heard that Guerin was involved in the theft of property worth over $100,000 and the supply of methylamphetamine and cocaine.
Police Raid Uncovers Drugs and Cash
In March 2023, police executed a search warrant at Guerin's home in the suburb of Chisholm, where they discovered 112 grams of methylamphetamine, 28 grams of cocaine, and $18,000 in cash. The drugs had a street value of approximately $50,000. Guerin was arrested and charged with multiple offences.
Details of the Burglaries
The court was told that Guerin committed burglaries at several homes in Canberra between September 2022 and February 2023. He stole electronics, jewellery, and other valuables. In one incident, he broke into a home in Kambah and stole a safe containing $20,000 in cash and jewellery. In another, he targeted a house in Wanniassa, making off with laptops and a television.
Impact on Victims
Victim impact statements read in court described the emotional toll of the burglaries. One victim said, "I no longer feel safe in my own home, and I have trouble sleeping at night." Another noted, "The invasion of my privacy has left me feeling violated and anxious." Justice David Mossop acknowledged the significant harm caused to the victims.
Guilty Plea and Remorse
Guerin pleaded guilty to 12 charges, including three counts of burglary, two counts of drug trafficking, and one count of possessing stolen property. His lawyer argued that Guerin had expressed genuine remorse and had taken steps to address his drug addiction while in custody. The court heard that Guerin had a long history of drug abuse and had been using methylamphetamine since his early 20s.
Sentence and Non-Parole Period
Justice Mossop sentenced Guerin to eight years in prison, with a non-parole period of four years and six months. The sentence was backdated to March 2023, when Guerin was first taken into custody. This means he will be eligible for parole in September 2027. The judge noted that the seriousness of the offences required a substantial prison term to deter others and to reflect the community's condemnation of such crimes.
Reactions from Police and Community
ACT Policing welcomed the sentence, with Detective Acting Inspector Mark Steel saying, "This outcome demonstrates our commitment to targeting those who profit from the sale of illicit drugs and the theft of property. We hope this sends a strong message to others involved in similar criminal activity." Local residents expressed relief that a repeat offender had been taken off the streets.
