AN ICE addict in possession of an illegal pistol was caught because the tattoo on his hand in a photograph had his own birthday on it.
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Jacob Geoffrey Matthews, 26, was sentenced to 21 months' imprisonment and 11 months non-parole for a raft of charges including a police pursuit, driving disqualified, domestic violence-related property damage and illegal firearm possession from 2018 to May this year.
His own lawyer Wendy McAuliffe called his criminal behaviour "unsophisticated" in Tamworth Local Court on Wednesday.
"The moment the photograph was taken the gun was in his possession," Ms McAuliffe said.
"But there is no evidence serial numbers were scratched out, that it was loaded or intended for nefarious purposes.
"He had that in his possession for a short period of time while the photo was taken which was quite unsophisticated given his identifying tattoos were on display, including one of his birthday."
Matthews was on bail for 11 charges when he was arrested by police at a home in Tamworth on May 23 after a mobile phone photo showed his hands holding a Magnum Desert Eagle .22 calibre pistol.
His partner sat in the gallery in support of him on Wednesday but his mother, who previously pleaded with magistrate Julie Soars to have him released into her care, was not.
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The seriousness of his ice addiction was acknowledged by Matthews and Ms McAuliffe has had a conversation with his mother since he was re-arrested.
"She supports her son but does not support the decisions he is making at the moment," she said.
For driving without a licence and destroying property Matthews was given a good behaviour bond, and an 18-month Community Corrections Order for another destroying property charge.
He has been disqualified from driving for three years for a police pursuit that saw him cross to the wrong side of the road in 2018.
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
