Jason Compton: Magistrate laments Batemans Bay teacher’s “unfortunate” self medication after cannabis plants seized

A magistrate has called a south coast teacher’s decision to grow 15 cannabis plants “unfortunate”, as the educator’s lawyer argues the man’s job is now in doubt.

A high school teacher suspended from a south coast school after being caught with 15 cannabis plants has pleaded guilty, with the man’s actions being labelled “unfortunate.”

Jason Compton was stood down by Batemans Bay High School earlier this month after he was charged with cultivating the plants, as well as possessing 51 grams of cannabis seeds.

Magistrate Michael O’Brien chose not to record a conviction against the 51-year-old when he appeared before the Batemans Bay Local Court on March 21 after hearing from the educator‘s lawyer.

Compton’s lawyer argued the plants were being used for medicinal use, which nonetheless drew the ire of Magistrate O’Brien who said taking that path was “a pity”.

“Compton isn’t the first person that has taken it upon themselves to self medicate,” Magistrate O’Brien said.

“It‘s a pity people that are considering self-medication don’t consult their healthcare professionals and avoid the attention of the authorities.

“People cannot administer illicit drugs because they believe that is the correct course.“

Magistrate O’Brien ruled out that the plants were going to be sold, but argued Compton could have pursued medicinal marijuana by legal means.

According to Compton’s lawyer, the courts were “in a bind” when it came to medicinal marijuana, arguing that the substance was being used by Compton to treat glaucoma.

“You can go get medical cannabis if you have a certificate,” he said.

“But, you’ve got a parallel system where if you grow it at home, and try to do it cheaply, it‘s against the law.”

Compton’s lawyer also lambasted what he called a “draconian” ruling by the NSW Department of Education to suspend the educator for an additional six months after the court case would be settled.

Compton’s job was in doubt as a result, he argued.

“Compton has been told his position has been advertised,” he said.

“All the auxiliary works he does at the school have been taken up by other teachers.

“The writing is pretty clear.”

Compton’s lawyer criticised reporting on the teacher‘s charges, stating that it had affected his reputation within the community.

Assertions by the lawyer that the charges were “not serious” were also disputed by the police prosecutor who argued the teacher’s job was not a “foregone conclusion”.

“We are not talking about a couple of plants,” the prosecutor said.

While Magistrate O’Brien did not record a conviction, he agreed that as a teacher Compton had to be a role model for students in his charge.

Compton will serve a nine month community corrections order.