Adam Avignone-Green, also known as 'Adam Antony,' appeared in Melbourne County Court on Thursday, facing charges of drug trafficking. Prosecutors allege he was the "principal" in an operation that advertised drugs via a website and distributed them from a St. Kilda warehouse, a system described by prosecutors as akin to Amazon's model.
The court heard that while the alleged drug quantities did not reach a commercial threshold, the operation involved offering various drugs for sale. The extent of Avignone-Green's specific role, whether in managing the website or sourcing drugs, is still being determined by both prosecution and defense.
Avignone-Green's legal team indicated he would seek to have his case heard in the drug court, citing his previous attempts at rehabilitation. The defense stated that Avignone-Green would "relish the opportunity for a drug and alcohol order" if his matter were transferred to the drug court.
Prior to his arrest, Avignone-Green was known in Melbourne's fitness and social scenes. He had previously promoted legal supplements and protein powders and advertised himself online as an "Addiction Recovery Coach dedicated to helping others escape their vices and reclaim their lives." He also documented his completion of the 75 Hard fitness challenge on Instagram.
Separately, a second offender pleaded guilty to trafficking commercial quantities of drugs and dealing with the proceeds of crime. This individual was previously sentenced in the drug court. Prosecutors noted that Avignone-Green and this second man were associated at one point before their alleged criminal activities diverged.
Avignone-Green faces additional charges for alleged further offending on December 31, which his barrister stated were not as significant as the current trafficking allegations and would be resolved in a magistrates' court.
Avignone-Green was remanded and is scheduled to appear in court again on November 4. The judge granted the defense time to apply for the drug court transfer while awaiting a settlement on an agreed summary of facts.