PARTY drug supply accused Kosta Sakellariou has had a second bid for bail knocked back by a Tamworth magistrate.
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The 19-year-old was arrested in December and charged with alleged involvement in the supply of ecstasy in the city's pub and club scene.
Sakellariou sat in the dock of Tamworth Local Court on Tuesday as police prosecutor Sergeant Cynthia Donovan asked for a five-week adjournment to obtain a statement from the officer-in-charge of the case.
The court heard that without it the brief of evidence is not compliant.
Defence solicitor Patricia Simpson argued her client Sakellariou had already spent far too long in custody for someone with no previous convictions.
"He's been in custody for a significant amount of time with a delay based on one statement," Ms Simpson said.
"My client is in custody unable to access programs, he's in need of rehabilitation.
"These are everyday matters that come into this court, Your Honour."
Magistrate Julie Soars disagreed, arguing the wait wasn't significant enough at this stage to necessitate bail.
Ms Soars did however order Sergeant Donovan to produce the statement from the officer in charge within two weeks instead of five.
"I have held the Sergeant to a much shorter period than she was expecting and I will require an explanation on the next occasion," she said.
"I have to refuse him bail on the basis Section 74 [grounds for a second release application] is not made out, Mr Sakellariou I am keeping an eye on this matter."
Sakellariou faces six charges, including two commercial drug supply charges; one indictable amount of cannabis supply; organising a drug premises; exposing a child to drug premises and contributing to a criminal group.
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Family and friends of Sakellariou watched on in court as his bail was denied, some cried as the magistrate made her ruling and he was taken back into custody.
The matter will return to Tamworth Local Court on March 24, and Ms Simpson said the court can expect her to make another bail application on behalf of her client then.
Sakellariou is one of 12 people now arrested as part of Strike Force Heyward, an investigation into the alleged supply of drugs like ecstasy in the Tamworth area.
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.
