Private school student who admitted selling drugs to fellow students spared jail

A “PRIVILEGED” private school student who trafficked illicit drugs has been spared an immediate jail term — but the judge warned he would be “an absolute fool” if he reoffended.

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A “PRIVILEGED” private school student who trafficked illicit drugs to his fellow students has narrowly escaped an immediate jail term.

During the sentencing of Ciaran Oates, 19, District Court Judge Steven Millsteed warned the former Pembroke School student he would be an “absolute fool” if he ever offended again.

Oates, of Dernacourt, pleaded guilty to two counts of trafficking in a controlled drug and one count of possessing a drug for supply at Maylands in March 2015 — the year after he graduated.

Judge Millsteed said Oates then admitted to selling illicit drugs, including ethylene — an ecstasy like substance — to fellow students at Pembroke School and Marryatville High School during his studies.

“The previous year, while completing year 12 at Pembroke School, you became involved in using cannabis and ecstasy,” he said.

“You obtained the drugs from a school mate. Your use of these drugs led you to selling cannabis and ethylene to finance your use of those substances.

“You sold to various persons, including students who attended Pembroke and Marryatville High School.”

Judge Millsteed said police found cannabis, 17 blue ethylene tablets, 22 ecstasy tablets, two sets of electronic scales and $2920 cash in Oates’ possession or in his car when they arrested him.

He said Oates had images on his phone of a large number of tablets, including about 1000 blue ethylene tablets, and a substantial amount of cash, which were the property of the person he was sourcing the illicit drugs from.

“Your parents have made substantial sacrifices to provide you with a privileged life, including a decent education.”

During his final year at Pembroke, at Kensington Park, Oates school fees were about $22,832.

The school’s principal Luke Thomson said the school had “very clear” policies on drugs.

“They prohibit the possession, use, exchange or sale of illicit or unsanctioned substances,” he said.

Association of Independent Schools of SA acting chief executive Roger Anderson said illicit drugs was “not a widespread issue”.

The Education Department’s executive director of statewide services and child development, Trish Strachan, said schools were expected to develop, implement and review their drug policies.

“Following a drug-related incident, schools act to protect other students and provide supportive interventions for students involved in the incident,” she said.

Judge Millsteed jailed Oates for three years and two months with a non-parole period of one year and eight months.

He suspended that sentence upon Oates entering a $1000, three-year good behaviour bond, citing his determination to lead a drug-free and productive life.

“You have come very close to going to jail for a substantial period,” Judge Millsteed said.

“I am confident that the courts will not see you again, but if you blow this opportunity you would be an absolute fool.”