Barry Calverley, a 68-year-old mining industry expert from Perth, made an emotional plea for bail during a court appearance at the NSW Supreme Court via video from Wellington prison. He was arrested at Sydney International Airport on January 24 with 5kg of heroin, which has an estimated street value of between $2.5 million and $3 million. Calverley, who has never been in custody before, has faced medical episodes while in jail, including cardiac and gastro-intestinal issues.
His lawyer argued that Calverley, a well-respected mining safety consultant with a wife of 31 years and three successful daughters, would be optimally cared for in the community due to his age and health conditions. His daughter flew in from Perth to support him, and his wife sent a letter of support. Despite this, the Commonwealth DPP prosecutor opposed his bail, stating that he is an unacceptable risk and the case against him is strong.
Calverley, who has worked on gas and oil projects for major companies like Shell and Exxon Mobil, is believed to have been promised an $11 million payment to bring a package from Laos into Australia. Despite expressing suspicion about the package, he maintains a plea of not guilty and claims he was duped. A friend in the safety consultancy business for mining sites provided a character reference for him, expressing disbelief at the accusations.
The judge ultimately refused bail, citing the seriousness of the charge, which carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Calverley appeared emotional and wiped away tears before the video link was shut off. He is set to be committed for trial in the NSW District Court in September, with a likely trial date in 2025.
The case of Barry Calverley highlights the complexities of drug trafficking charges and the emotional toll it takes on individuals and their families. It also raises questions about the risks and consequences associated with international drug smuggling operations. The support from his family and friends underscores the impact of such charges on the lives of those accused and their loved ones. Despite the legal proceedings and uncertainty surrounding his future, Calverley maintains his innocence and looks towards a trial to prove his side of the story.
