Barkly Regional Council Mayor Jeffrey McLaughlin faces Alice Springs Local Court

The outback mayor in charge of a slice of the Australia larger than Switzerland, Portugal and Syria combined has returned to court.

The Barkly Regional Council Mayor Jeffrey Allen McLaughlin has been accused of growing and supplying cannabis and driving around his hometown while under the influence.

The outback mayor in charge of a slice of the Territory larger than Switzerland, Portugal and Syria combined has returned to Alice Springs Local Court.

Barkly Regional Council mayor Jeffrey Allen McLaughlin has been accused of growing and supplying cannabis and driving around his hometown while under the influence.

On Monday his matter appeared before Judge Sarah McNamara as part of the ongoing investigation.

Police allege Mr McLaughlin was caught driving under the influence of drugs twice within the space of four months.

The Barkly mayor was allegedly pulled over by police at Tennant Creek on Friday, February 3, and produced a positive result for cannabis in a roadside test.

The Barkly Regional Council Mayor Jeffrey Allen McLaughlin has been accused of growing and supplying cannabis and driving around his hometown while under the influence.

The alleged positive ping for drugs came less than four months after a similar alleged incident in September.

Police allege after McLaughlin tested positive to cannabis drug-driving, a search of the mayor’s Tennant Creek home uncovered cannabis plants and material.

McLaughlin was charged with drug possession and supply and cultivating less than a trafficable quantity of a prohibited plant.

While he temporarily stepped away from the top role following the initial charges in September, it is understood McLaughlin has since returned to his mayoral role.

It is understood McLaughlin is contesting the charges.

Ms McNamara adjourned the case to March 21 for a directions hearing.