Talisha Lee Addo, 31, given a last chance to turn her life around

A street-level meth supplier and qualified hairdresser has been given a final chance to turn her life around and stay out of prison by a Cairns judge.

Talisha Lee Addo, 31, was given a last chance to turn her life around by a Cairns Judge. Picture: Brendan Radke

A street-level meth supplier and qualified hairdresser has been given a final chance to turn her life around and stay out of prison by a Cairns judge.

Talisha Lee Addo, 31, pleaded guilty in Cairns District Court on Monday to five counts of supplying a dangerous drug and one of possessing property suspected of being used to commit a drug offence – her mobile phone.

The court was told she had a criminal history of possessing drugs dating back to 2015.

Judge Dean Morzone KC encouraged Addo to “learn to love yourself” rather than engaging in the “hateful process of putting poisons in your body”.

He said she could have a bright future as a mother and productive, employed member of society, noting that Addo had qualifications in hairdressing, management, business administration and hospitality.

He sentenced Addo to 12 months imprisonment, with an immediate release on parole, telling her she would find herself in jail for the slightest breach.

“Methamphetamines is an insidious drug that wrecks lives, wrecks families and wrecks our community because those who use it simply cannot control themselves – it is a drug that is controlling,” Judge Morzone said.

He wished her luck in ending her addiction.

Talisha Lee Addo, 31, pleaded guilty in Cairns District Court to supplying methamphetamines to friends and associates. Picture: Facebook

Prosecutor Ryan Smith told the court Addo supplied small amounts of methamphetamines, between 0.1g and 0.2 grams for $50 and $100 to friends and associates between December 4 and December 10 in 2023.

Mr Smith said Addo had been given many chances to turn around her life, having appeared in court seven times on drug possession charges and been given fines, suspended sentences and probation in the past.

“Time and time again, the defendant has been dealt with leniently and provided with opportunities … in my submission a term of imprisonment of 12-18 months could be imposed,” he said.

Defence Barrister John Seccull said Addo had been struggling with a methamphetamines addiction for many years, but had the support of family, and had twice checked into a rehabilitation facility for several weeks of treatment each time.

He said she was a mother of four children, and had a very challenging upbringing.

“Ms Addo has clearly had a long struggle with methamphetamines which is referenced in her criminal history,” Mr Seccull said.

Originally published as Talisha Lee Addo, 31, given a last chance to turn her life around