Michael Gordon: Former NRL player sentenced after drug bust

An ex-NRL star whose coaching aspirations fell apart after he pleaded guilty to cocaine possession has learnt his fate in court.

An ex-Gold Coast Titans player has narrowly avoided a conviction after being busted with prohibited drugs and accused of supplying them.

Michael Gordon, 38, was arrested at his Casuarina home in possession of MDMA and cocaine in November, 2020.

At Tweed Heads Local Court on September 15, the court heard of Gordon’s struggles over Covid-19 lockdowns and the past selfless acts of charity he had undertaken in the community.

Gordon pleaded guilty to the drug possession charges and not guilty to drug supply charges.

Former NRL star Michael Gordon appears at Tweed Heads Courthouse (with wife Tess). Pics Adam Head

Magistrate Geoff Dunlevy acknowledged Gordon’s efforts of rehabilitation but noted the seriousness of the offences. Despite his clear embarrassment, Gordon was not entitled to any leniency, Mr Dunlevy said.

“It would appear you’ve taken steps to remove yourself from the drug usage community,” he said.

“It’s going to take some time to rebuild yourself.

“A sentence has to send a message that this type of conduct leads to some form of punishment; the court needs to hand down sentences that help your rehabilitation.”

Mr Dunlevy found the supply charges proven and hit Gordon with a conditional release order of two years. No conviction was recorded.

The charges surrounding Gordon’s possession of prohibited drugs were dismissed.

It was also noted Gordon’s employment at the Gold Coast Titans and his ownership of a local coffee shop counted in his favour.

Gordon was accompanied by his wife Tess Gordon at Tweed Local Court today.

Originally published as Michael Gordon: Former NRL player sentenced after drug bust