Kerry Gilbert Levinge in court for drug offences

The man faced court after using drugs for pain relief, and said he now had access to a legal alternative. Read what the court heard.

After being busted with cannabis plants and more than 600 grams of pot during a police raid, a Glenwood man with ongoing health issues sought help from his GP so he could start using the substance legally.

Kerry Gilbert Levinge, 39, pleaded guilty to producing dangerous drugs, possessing dangerous drugs and possessing drug utensils when he faced Maryborough Magistrates Court.

The court heard on November 25, 2021, police raided his Glenwood home.

They found five cannabis plants, 604 grams of cannabis, metal pipes and a grinder.

Levine co-operated with police throughout the raid, the court was told.

Defence lawyer Travis George said Levinge suffered from chronic back issues, anxiety and personality adjustment disorder.

Levinge also suffered from seizures and was using cannabis to self-medicate.

Kerry Gilbert Levinge, 39, pleaded guilty to producing dangerous drugs, possessing dangerous drugs and possessing drug utensils when he faced Maryborough Magistrates Court.

Mr George said his client was now connected with NDIS and had been approved for use of medicinal marijuana.

Mr George said he understood his client had more than $18,000 in outstanding SPER debt.

But he said that included about $9500 in road tolls that had been incurred after Levinge sold a vehicle and was being disputed.

Police had not found scales or currency or any evidence of commerciality during their search, Mr George said, which supported Levinge in saying the drugs were for his own use.

The court heard even before his arrest, Levinge had been taking steps towards rehabilitation and ensuring he would no longer need illicit drugs.

Levinge was sentenced to six months in prison, suspended for 12 months.

Convictions were recorded.