Dylan John Podetti pleaded guilty to possessing dangerous drugs

A former concreter waiting on surgery for a busted knee found himself in a new world of pain when he was pulled over by police.

A drug driver was busted with 2.4 grams of meth, a hatchet and three knives when police pulled him over, a court has heard.

A drug driver was busted with 2.4 grams of meth, a hatchet and three knives when police pulled him over, a court has heard.

Dylan John Podetti, 27, pleaded guilty in Maryborough Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday to possessing dangerous drugs, possession of knives and a weapon and driving under the influence.

Sergeant Sonia Edwards said Podetti had been stopped by police on Bidwill Rd about 4am on September 20, 2024.

Podetti underwent a roadside drug test and returned a positive result.

A search of the car revealed a clipseal bag with 2.4 grams of meth inside.

Three knives and a hatchet (type of axe) were also found during the search.

A blood test later revealed the presence of meth and amphetamines in Podetti’s system.

His licence had been suspended immediately, Sgt Edwards said.

Defence lawyer Michael Riedel said his client was currently unemployed but had numerous qualifications and had previously worked in concreting and roofing.

Podetti had been in a relationship for five years and was a stepfather to four children, Mr Riedel said.

His client had significant literacy issues having only attended school to Year 8, Mr Riedel said.

Podetti had used drugs for a number of years but hadn’t touched drugs since the incident, he said.

He was awaiting a knee reconstruction and had schizophrenia.

Magistrate John Milburn said the quantity of the drug was considerable, but the purity was unknown.

Mr Milburn fined Podetti $2200 and disqualified him for driving for three months.

Convictions were recorded on all charges.

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