A Geelong-based dentist has been released on bail after facing court over serious drug trafficking allegations, with the hearing revealing he lost a staggering $3.6 million while gambling at Melbourne's Crown Casino.
Court Hears of Multi-Million Dollar Gambling Losses
During a bail application at the Geelong Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, the court was told that Dr. Nicholas Soh, 35, had gambled away millions of dollars. Defence barrister Damian Sheales informed the court that his client had lost approximately $3.6 million at Crown Casino over several years. This financial detail formed a key part of the argument for why Dr. Soh should not be considered a flight risk.
Dr. Soh, who operates a dental practice in the Geelong suburb of Belmont, is facing multiple charges. These include trafficking a commercial quantity of a drug of dependence, specifically cocaine, and possessing the proceeds of crime. The allegations stem from a police investigation that led to a search of his Newtown home last week.
Allegations and Police Evidence Detailed
Police prosecutors opposed the bail application, presenting evidence allegedly found during the search. Officers claim to have discovered a total of 1.5 kilograms of a substance suspected to be cocaine, along with more than $145,000 in cash. The prosecution argued that the quantity of the drug and the amount of money indicated a serious level of involvement in the drug trade.
However, Mr Sheales countered these claims. He stated that the actual amount of pure cocaine was significantly less than the gross weight presented by police. He also emphasised his client's deep community ties, noting that Dr. Soh is a registered health practitioner with strong family connections in the area, having lived in Geelong for over 15 years.
Bail Granted with Strict Conditions
Magistrate Michael Coghlan ultimately decided to grant bail, imposing a suite of strict conditions. Dr. Soh was released on a $50,000 surety and must reside at his Newtown address. He is prohibited from attending any points of international departure, such as airports, and cannot contact any potential witnesses linked to the case.
Furthermore, he must report to the Geelong Police Station three times a week and surrender any passports he holds. The magistrate's decision considered the defence's arguments regarding the dentist's roots in the community and the nature of the evidence against him at this early stage.
The case has been adjourned for a filing hearing on August 5, where further details of the police case are expected to be disclosed. Dr. Soh has not yet entered a formal plea to the charges. The revelations of substantial gambling losses at one of Australia's most famous casinos add a complex financial dimension to the ongoing legal proceedings.
