The prosecution of former Australian Test cricketer Stuart MacGill is nearing its conclusion, with significant scrutiny directed at the key witness in the case, referred to as Person A. This witness, a former drug dealer, claims that MacGill was involved in arranging a major cocaine supply operation in April 2021. The prosecution’s case is primarily based on Person A’s testimony, which alleges that a deal involving $330,000 for a kilogram of cocaine was orchestrated between MacGill’s brother-in-law, Marino Sotiropoulos, and Person A.
The defence argues that Person A has exhibited a pattern of dishonesty, suggesting that their motivation to implicate MacGill stems from an attempt to secure a lesser sentence for their own charges related to drug supply. Defence barrister Thos Hodgson emphasised that MacGill has consistently denied any involvement in the drug deal. Despite previous occasions where MacGill had shared the contact details of Person A with others, the defence contends that this should not imply participation in the larger deal.
The jury was informed about the circumstances surrounding the initial deal, which had proceeded smoothly until Person A allegedly absconded with $660,000 worth of cocaine, leading to MacGill’s kidnapping and assault. It was noted that when he reported the incident to the police, MacGill denied any connection to the drug supply.
In closing statements, Hodgson pointed out the fallibility of relying solely on Person A’s account, contrasting it with independent evidence that the prosecution claims supports his credibility. Crown prosecutor Gabrielle Steedman contended that if parts of Person A’s testimony can be verified as reliable, then there is a basis to trust his claims regarding MacGill’s involvement.
Judge Nicole Noman instructed jurors that for a guilty verdict, they must be convinced that MacGill was aware of the substantial quantity of drugs involved in the transaction. MacGill, who has played 44 Test matches for Australia, has pleaded not guilty to the charge of knowingly participating in the supply of a large quantity of cocaine.
The trial is set to continue as the jury deliberates on the evidence presented.