Ex-prison guard Richard Prothero bailed on 60kg meth import charge

An ex-prison guard accused of attempting to possess 60kg of methamphetamine imported from the USA has been released on strict bail so he and his wife can continue their IVF journey.

An ex-prison guard accused of attempting to possess 60kg of methamphetamine imported from the USA has been released on strict bail so he and his wife can continue their IVF journey.

It comes as Richard Prothero, who previously worked in a senior position at Parklea Correctional Centre, claims he was subject to daily threats from fellow prisoners who recognised him while he was being held on remand at the Metropolitan Reception and Remand Centre (MRRC).

Police allege Prothero was part of a syndicate that attempted to import 92 bags of methamphetamine into Australia that had been packed into three large canvas duffle bags and loaded onto the Maltese cargo ship CMA CGM Dutch Harbour.

He was charged with attempting to possess a commercial quantity of a border controlled drug and remanded in custody.

Former prison guard Richard Prothero.

In an affidavit tendered in court, Prothero’s partner said the pair had been in the middle of undergoing IVF treatment when Prothero was arrested, and she needed him to be at liberty to continue providing sperm samples if they had any hope of starting a family.

“At 42, the clock is ticking and the project of pausing this journey whilst he remains in custody is something I am very worried about,” she wrote.

She also expressed concern about Prothero’s safety in jail given his previous employment as a correctional officer between 2009 and 2013.

Prothero was arrested in the car park at Maroubra Surf Club.

Justice David Davies agreed to release Prothero on bail, despite finding the case against him was a strong one.

As part of the bail conditions, Prothero’s partner was required to lodge a $250,000 surety, while Prothero agreed to report to police daily, live at his home in Prestons and not leave the premises unless attending legal or medical appointments, which includes the IVF clinic. The case will return to court early next year.