Jacob Swain: Wynnum West drug trafficker sentenced in court

A young Brisbane tradie conducted a seven-and-a-half month operation selling three types of drugs, a court has heard.

A young Brisbane roofer trafficked cannabis for seven-and-a-half months while also supplying MDMA and cocaine, a court has heard.

Wynnum West man Jacob Swain, 22, pleaded guilty in Brisbane District Court to nine offences.

They included trafficking in a dangerous drug, seven counts of supplying a Schedule 1 dangerous drug, and one count of possessing a mobile phone used in the commission of a drug offence.

The court heard the trafficking occurred between December 1, 2018 and Swain’s arrest following a search warrant executed on June 24, 2019.

The search warrant uncovered a large quantity of cannabis, a bong, digital scales and a grinder.

Jacob Swain leaves the District Court in Brisbane. He was sentenced for trafficking in cannabis and supplying cocaine and MDMA. Picture: Dan Peled

Analysis of Swain’s mobile phone revealed he had been conducting a street-level trafficking business supplying cannabis to more than 60 customers.

In total, Swain transacted about $12,500 worth of cannabis, which he spent on maintaining his own cannabis addiction, smoking up to 7g per day, as well as buying groceries and other items.

The court heard Swain made conscious attempts to grow his business by seeking referrals and supplied cannabis on about 150 occasions.

It was submitted on Swain’s behalf that he had kicked his habit and totally rehabilitated.

Swain, a roofing apprentice whose employer was in court to support him, had a disruptive childhood due to his parents’ alcoholism and ice addictions, and he spent a period homeless after high school.

Swain was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment, wholly suspended for a period of three years, and placed on three years’ probation.