Originally Posted by Stylesy
Nic,
What if it was put this way:
I order a boogie board (complete with bag) from a mate who owns a surf shop in Sydney. When it arrives at my residence, I sign for it. Next thing I know, I'm arrested - why? Because along with the board there's 4kg of cannabis (or substitute) in the bag.
Now the questions raised (and sure to be asked) are:
Did I know that my mate put it in there?
Did I accept receipt, and therefore possession of the bag?
Not many questions, but at the end of the day the original onus of proof is on the police and prosecution - was I in possession of an illegal drug? Of course I was, I'd accepted receipt and had it in my possession. (Maybe I was stupid by not checking the bag first, but that doesn't change the fact that I was legally in possession.)
Ok, so the prosecution has proven their case for possession. Now it's up to me and my defence team to show a lawful reason why I had it, or to come up with enough evidence to put reasonable doubt in the magistrate's mind. If I can't do that, I may be found guilty.
Hmmm, this all sounds familiar.......... :rolleyes: