Former Australian spinner Stuart MacGill has been handed a 22-month intensive corrections order and 495 hours of community service after being found guilty of participating in a cocaine deal. The 54-year-old avoided jail time but was convicted of taking part in drug supply, a charge stemming from a 2021 incident.
What Was the Case?
The court found that MacGill introduced his regular drug dealer to his brother-in-law, Marino Sotiropoulos, at a meeting underneath his restaurant in Sydney’s north shore. Although MacGill denied knowing about the drug transaction, prosecutors stated that the deal — involving 1 kg of cocaine worth AUD 330,000 — could not have happened without his help.
While the jury acquitted him of facilitating a large-scale drug supply, they found him guilty of involvement in the supply.
The Kidnapping Twist
In 2021, MacGill was reportedly kidnapped and assaulted, which brought the case to public attention. However, the accused kidnappers claimed that MacGill voluntarily came to the location and was already involved in drug dealings. These claims contradicted earlier police statements that MacGill was purely a victim.
Steve Waugh Supports Former Teammate
During the sentencing at Downing Centre District Court, a letter from former Australia captain Steve Waugh was presented in MacGill’s support. Waugh wrote:
“I believe that Stuart has the background of knowledge accumulated in his life and playing days to appreciate all the options for the future…”
Career Recap: Stuart MacGill
- Matches: 44 Tests for Australia
- Wickets: 208
- Role: Right-arm leg-spinner
- Era: Played mainly between 1998–2008, often seen as Shane Warne’s backup
Despite his success on the field, MacGill’s post-retirement life has faced controversy and legal troubles, culminating in this conviction.
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