A Perth woman has been sentenced to three years in prison after attempting to conceal a bag of methamphetamine in her dog's rear end during a police search.
Desperate concealment attempt
Tricia Margot Naussedat, 43, was found guilty of possessing a prohibited drug with intent to sell or supply after District Court Judge Carmel Barbagallo delivered the verdict on Wednesday. The court heard that police discovered the shocking concealment method during a search of Naussedat's home on October 21, 2022.
Officers observed Naussedat attempting to hide a clip-seal bag containing 5.6 grams of methamphetamine in her dog's anus. The white Staffordshire bull terrier named Buster became an unwilling participant in the drug concealment scheme.
Police intervention and evidence
Police immediately intervened and prevented the complete concealment of the drugs. During the subsequent search, authorities uncovered additional evidence including multiple clip-seal bags, a set of scales, and a smoking implement.
The prosecution successfully argued that the quantity of methamphetamine and the presence of drug paraphernalia indicated Naussedat intended to sell or supply the drugs rather than for personal use alone.
Court sentencing and consequences
Judge Barbagallo emphasized the seriousness of the offence during sentencing. Naussedat received a three-year prison term and will be eligible for parole after serving 18 months.
The court considered the unusual nature of the concealment method and the involvement of the family pet in the drug offence. The judge noted that attempting to use an animal in this manner represented a significant escalation in drug-related criminal behaviour.
This case highlights the extreme measures some individuals will take to conceal illegal substances from law enforcement. The sentencing serves as a warning that such behaviour carries serious consequences in the Western Australian justice system.
