Shannon Burt: Mildura heart attack survivor slammed for snorting cocaine

A Mildura heart attack survivor who risked his life when he snorted cocaine has been warned not to “run the gauntlet” again.

A Mildura man has pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine.

A Mildura heart attack survivor who risked his life when snorted cocaine has been warned not to “run the gauntlet” again.

Shannon Burt, 32, pleaded guilty to charges including possessing cocaine and ammunition, as well as dealing with proceeds of crime, when on Monday appearing at Mildura Magistrates’ Court.

A police prosecutor told the court the Mildura address of Burt and a co-accused was searched on April 20.

Police found a white powdered substance in a clear plastic bag containing 3g of what was alleged to be cocaine.

The court was told about 50g of green vegetable matter believed to be cannabis, four boxes of codeine and various other prescription medications were found.

Police said several .22 calibre ammunition rounds were located in a hallway, while a stolen John Deere ride-on lawnmower was found outside.

Burt was already on a community corrections order after earlier offending.

The court was told Burt had recently re-engaged with corrections officers and had a number of health concerns, including diabetes and issues stemming from two heart attacks.

Magistrate Michael Coghlan questioned why someone with a damaged heart would turn to drugs.

“I reckon that would be just the sort of thing the heart would be screaming out for,” Mr Coghlan said.

Burt’s lawyer said the lawnmower had been bought for a “reasonable” price on Facebook and the ammunition had been intended for a coffee table project.

The court was told the drugs were for Burt’s own use.

The lawyer said since moving back in with his parents while on bail, Burt had struggled with the household’s “strict, no-nonsense policy”.

Mr Coghlan responded: “Well good, it’s working.”

The magistrate said Burt should be thanking his mother for her support.

A further 100 hours of unpaid community work was added to Burt’s existing order, with Mr Coghlan suggesting prison would be the next step.

“If you want to run the gauntlet, you can come in and see me again,” Mr Coghlan said.

“I wouldn’t suggest it or recommend it.”

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