A highly-decorated Australian soldier who was caught with a stash of anabolic steroids, ecstasy and amphetamines had his charges dismissed after blaming his use on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Gregory Robert Baker, a veteran of the Australian Special Air Service Regiment (SAS), pleaded guilty to nine charges of drug possession. But a judge found PTSD to be a mitigating factor in the offense.
The former SAS soldier retired with the rank of colonel. Baker most recently served in Kuwait and East Timor after the September 11th attacks on the United States. In 2001, Baker was recognized as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the military division for his “exceptional service or performance of duty” while in East Timor.
Jacqui Aquis, the attorney representing Baker, argued that Baker suffered from mental health problems as a result of conflicts during his active duty in East Timor and Kuwait. Furthermore, the steroids, ecstasy and amphetamines were used as self-medication to help him cope with the psychological trauma.
Aquis argued that Baker’s drug possession could be directly linked his experiences serving his country.
Magistrate Bernadette Boss agreed. She accepted Baker’s mental status as reason to dismiss the steroid and drug charges.
“I’m also conscious of the fact that it’s still a relatively serious matter to be self-medicating with these drugs, and if there is a risk of a slippage back into self medication I believe it is in the interest of the community for that to be monitored,” Boss said.
Boss referred Baker’s case to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) for adjudication. The tribunal will determine what type of mental health treatment and monitoring is warranted for Baker’s condition.
Source:
Andrews, L. (November 21, 2012). Soldier’s drug charges dismissed due to mental health issues. Retrieved from http://www.canberratimes.com.au/act-news/soldiers-drug-charges-dismissed-due-to-mental-health-issues-20121121-29puf.html
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