A man found unconscious with a bag of money, drugs and a loaded gun inside a Canberra brothel, has been allowed to leave jail after being sentenced in the ACT's Drug and Alcohol Court.
David Celeski, 40, had been behind bars awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to seven charges including drug trafficking in both methamphetamine and heroin, unauthorised possession of a prohibited firearm and possession of property believed to be the proceeds of crime.
The ACT Drug and Alcohol Court — which provides an alternative for people whose offending is driven by their addictions — imposed a two year treatment order on Celeski, under which he will have to appear in court each week and abide by strict rules.
Court documents reveal Celeski had been at Canberra's Langtrees Bar and Brothel for several hours when he was found unconscious by staff.
An ambulance was called, and then police, after the gun, money and drugs were found.
Police said they discovered more than $12,000 in cash, a large clip seal bag containing white power, with 40 grams of heroin, three telephones and the loaded Colt 1911.
Justice Richard Refshauge told the court the evidence showed Celeski was a user-dealer.
"He was not a significant part of the drug dealing operation," Justice Refshauge said.
"He is a high-functioning person with a drug dependency."
Justice Refshauge said Celeski had taken responsibility for his actions while pleading guilty.
"The reason Mr Celeski took drugs is relevant," Justice Refshauge said.
"His anxiety and depression was a key element."
He also addressed Celeski personally, telling him they were "serious offences".
"It's not just you giving some mates drugs … that flows on to affect others," Justice Refshauge said.
"If you are serious … this court will support you so long as you comply with the rules of the court."
Celeski will have to appear in court weekly and comply with strict conditions.
He nodded as Justice Refshauge explained the process.
"It's going to be long. But it's the way to do it," Justice Refshauge said.
And he pointed to Celeski's children to drive home the point.
"You can't be a role model when you are running around with drugs."
Celeski has been released from custody, but will have to comply with the order for two years or return to jail.
