Melbourne socialite and mother Brynne Edelsten has been hit with bombshell drug trafficking charges following a police raid on her inner-city home this week.
Police Raid Uncovers 'Treasure Trove of Drugs'
Officers executed a search warrant at Edelsten's Fitzroy property on Monday, where they allegedly discovered commercial quantities of methamphetamine, ketamine, and a date rape drug. The 42-year-old was subsequently arrested and charged.
The court heard on Tuesday that police were initially tipped off after a co-accused allegedly sent parcels of meth from Victoria to Tasmania in October. During the bail hearing at Melbourne Magistrates' Court, Magistrate Brett Sonnet remarked that her home was a "treasure trove of drugs" and stated there was no doubt she was either a "significant user or a significant trafficker".
Emotional Court Appearance and Bail Conditions
Edelsten, who appeared visibly distressed and in tears throughout the hearing, has denied any knowledge of the substances found in her house. Her mother joined the proceedings via video link from Arizona in the United States, telling the magistrate she was prepared to make a mercy dash to Melbourne to assist her daughter.
The court was also informed this is not the first time the former wife of late businessman and Sydney Swans owner Geoffrey Edelsten has faced drug-related legal trouble, though she avoided conviction on previous offences.
Prosecutors indicated it could take up to 12 months to analyse data from Edelsten's phone to determine her alleged level of involvement in what police describe as an elaborate trafficking plot.
Strict Bail Granted Amid Ongoing Investigation
Despite the serious charges, Brynne Edelsten was granted bail on Tuesday afternoon under strict conditions. She must report to a police station three times a week as the investigation continues.
The case has sent shockwaves through Melbourne's social circles, highlighting the severe legal consequences facing those accused of commercial drug trafficking in Australia.
