In a significant ruling from the Cairns Supreme Court, a repeat drug offender has been handed a substantial prison term for trafficking dangerous drugs in the city. Fabian O'Hara, a 38-year-old man with a history of similar crimes, will spend the next seven years behind bars for his role in a methamphetamine distribution network.
From Arrest to Sentencing: The Timeline of Crime
The case against O'Hara began to unfold in late 2022. Police investigations led to a targeted search of a Manoora residence on October 26 of that year. During the operation, officers discovered a significant quantity of methamphetamine, along with other items linking O'Hara to the trade.
The search uncovered 14.6 grams of methamphetamine, a set of digital scales, and a mobile phone containing evidence of drug deals. This evidence formed the cornerstone of the prosecution's case, demonstrating not just possession but an active commercial operation.
O'Hara was subsequently charged with one count of trafficking in dangerous drugs. He pleaded guilty to the charge, bringing the matter before Justice Jim Henry in the Cairns Supreme Court for sentencing.
A History of Offending Weighs on the Sentence
Justice Henry did not mince words when considering O'Hara's criminal past, which played a crucial role in the length of the sentence imposed. The court heard that O'Hara was on parole at the time of his latest offence, having been released from prison only months earlier for a previous drug trafficking conviction.
O'Hara had been released on parole in June 2022, but was back dealing methamphetamine by October of the same year. This blatant disregard for the law and his parole conditions was a major aggravating factor. Crown prosecutor Luke Ruge told the court that the defendant's actions showed a concerning level of recidivism.
In his defence, O'Hara's lawyer argued that his client had fallen back into drug use and dealing due to a relapse and the negative influence of associates. However, the judge emphasised the serious harm caused by the methamphetamine trade in the community.
The Final Gavel Falls: A Seven-Year Sentence
After weighing the submissions, Justice Henry sentenced Fabian O'Hara to seven years in prison. The sentence reflects the seriousness of trafficking a drug like methamphetamine, the quantity involved, and the defendant's status as a repeat offender who breached parole.
A critical part of the sentencing decision was the setting of a parole eligibility date. Justice Henry ordered that O'Hara must serve at least half of his seven-year term before he can apply for parole. This means he will be incarcerated for a minimum of three and a half years before any potential release.
The sentence sends a strong message about the consequences of drug trafficking in Far North Queensland, particularly for those who continue to offend after already facing the justice system. The case highlights the ongoing efforts of Queensland Police to combat the supply of illicit substances in the Cairns region.
