Australian Gangster Tony Mokbel Gets Reduced Drug Sentence
Tony Mokbel, one of Australia's most infamous gangsters, has had his drug trafficking sentence reduced from 20 years to 13 years after a major legal controversy involving his lawyer was revealed.
Background of the Case
In 2012, Mokbel was sentenced to 30 years for orchestrating an extensive drug syndicate during Melbourne’s gangland war. His criminal network, known as “The Company,” was connected to numerous murders that inspired the popular TV series Underbelly.
Legal Controversy
The case took a dramatic turn when it was disclosed that Nicola Gobbo, Mokbel’s high-profile lawyer, was secretly acting as a police informant. Gobbo, also known as Informer 3838, provided police with information while representing Mokbel and other clients in related cases.
Appeal and Sentence Reduction
After about 18 years in prison, Mokbel was released on bail in April, as courts considered his appeal valid due to the undisclosed conflict of interest involving Gobbo. His legal team argued that he may not have pleaded guilty had he known about her dual role.
The Court of Appeal focused on one charge concerning the trafficking of over 41 kilograms of methylamphetamine from 2006 to 2007. Although the appeal was dismissed, his sentence was reduced to 13 years, seven months, and 15 days.
The court described Mokbel’s crimes as “very grave” but recognized “unusual circumstances” in this case.
Justices also noted that Mokbel was a first-time drug offender and had endured serious injuries while in custody.
Author's Summary
This case highlights how undisclosed conflicts in legal representation can significantly impact the outcomes even for high-profile criminal convictions.