Jodi Louise Nuske on trial for allegedly defrauding workplace Bistro C, Noosa

A profile photo has sparked an explosive claim against a former assistant to a Noosaville woman on trial for swindling more than $750,000 from a Hastings St restaurant.

The defence counsel for a Noosaville woman, on trial for defrauding Noosa restaurant Bistro C out of more than $750,000, has accused the woman’s former assistant of using illicit drugs in front of her, a court has been told. Photo: Patrick Woods/iStock

The defence counsel for a Noosaville woman, on trial for defrauding Noosa restaurant Bistro C out of more than $750,000, has accused the woman’s former assistant of using illicit drugs in front of her.

It comes as the criminal trial against former Bistro C employee, Jodi Louise Nuske, entered its third day in Maroochydore District Court on December 7.

Ms Nuske, 44, has pleaded not guilty to one charge of fraud by dishonestly obtaining benefits by employee between 2013 and 2016.

On Wednesday morning, Crown prosecutor Alex Stark called a fourth witness, Ms Nuske’s former assistant and friend, Ashleigh Goodman, to give evidence.

But while being cross-examined, defence barrister Scott Casey made a bombshell accusation against Ms Goodman, claiming she had done cocaine in front of Ms Nuske outside of work.

Jodi Louise Nuske leaving Maroochydore District Court.

He linked this to the fact Ms Goodman’s profile photo, shown in a screenshot of text messages between herself and Ms Nuske, was an Eight ball – a symbol often associated with the drug.

Ms Goodman declined to answer on the grounds of privilege of self incrimination.

Mr Casey did not continue questioning her on the matter.

A further two witnesses were called by the prosecution, including the daughter of Bistro C owner Lorraine Banks, who continued her cross-examination from December 6.

The trial continues.

Originally published as Jodi Louise Nuske on trial for allegedly defrauding workplace Bistro C, Noosa