A 28-year-old man, Jesse Doree, appeared in Melbourne Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, facing charges of trafficking a commercial quantity of cocaine. The allegations stem from a month-long police investigation into the distribution of illicit substances in the Brighton area. Doree, who has a previous conviction for cocaine trafficking, was arrested following a police raid on his girlfriend's unit in Brighton East on Monday.
Investigators reportedly seized approximately 300 grams of cocaine, with an estimated street value of $100,000, along with ketamine and prescription medication from the North Road unit. Detectives also confiscated $45,000 in cash, which police allege are proceeds of crime. Doree's girlfriend, Romy Hill, was arrested and released on summons.
Allegations of Drug Debts
During the court proceedings, lead investigator Detective Senior Constable Jack Wills presented evidence that police seized two mobile phones. One phone was described as a 'clean phone,' while the second was allegedly used for drug trafficking. A preliminary search of the second phone reportedly revealed videos of cocaine and notes detailing alleged drug debts owed to Doree, with amounts including $35,000 and $42,000. Detective Wills claimed police found a list of names of individuals who owed Doree money for drugs, and a screenshot of a house on Google Maps with instructions for debt collection.
Doree reportedly told police he sourced his own prescription drugs because he did not trust doctors, but declined to comment on the trafficking allegations. He also stated he does not use cocaine, though police noted he uses Valium and other opioid medication following a "watersports accident."
Bail Application
Doree, who is unemployed and attended the prestigious De La Salle College, sought bail. His mother offered a $20,000 surety, and his brother offered a $10,000 surety. The deputy chief magistrate pressed Doree's mother regarding her ability to offer an $800,000 property as surety. She indicated her willingness to put up her house, stating she renovates homes for a living and is close with her four sons.
Prosecutors opposed bail, arguing that the telecommunication material extracted from Doree's phone, including messages about money owed, was consistent with participation in drug trafficking. The prosecution submitted that the alleged offenses involved commercial quantities, suggesting involvement in drug networks, distribution channels, and a financial motive. They further argued that the alleged drug debts indicated participation in an ongoing drug enterprise with access to persons and infrastructure capable of facilitating further trafficking.
Deputy Chief Magistrate Bourke denied bail, citing the seriousness of the allegations and the potential for a significant jail sentence. Doree, who also faces charges related to possession of prescription medication and ketamine, and dealing with the proceeds of crime, was remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear in court again on October 12.