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An Auckland methamphetamine dealer was jailed for four years six months by Justice John Fogarty in the High Court at Christchurch.
Man Hon Chau, a 30-year-old manager, had dealt with a Christchurch resident, Yun Kang Tsao, who has already been jailed for five years six months.
A two-month police investigation involved electronic interception of 1900 telephone calls and text messages, observations of the men involved as they went about their drug dealing, and purchases by undercover officers.
The investigation ended on June 14, 2007, with the execution of search warrants in Auckland and Christchurch and a series of arrests.
"During the investigation, it became clear that Tsao and Chau were participants in an organised syndicate in which large amounts of methamphetamine were being sourced from Auckland by Tsao through Chau," the Crown said.
"Tsao would then sell the methamphetamine to Christchurch-based associates."
Chau's defence counsel Marie Dyhrberg said: "The prisoner is well aware that he has made a huge mistake with his life."
He had the support and the will to ensure that he did not end up in prison again.
Chau's mother and his partner were in court for his sentencing.
Crown prosecutor Anne Toohey said the Crown was seeking to seize the significant sums of money found with Chau, under the Misuse of Drugs Act.
"The court may consider personal circumstances will carry little weight in offending of this nature," she said.
Chau had pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply methamphetamine and possession of the class A drug for supply - an offence that carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
Justice Fogarty said he was satisfied - particularly in the absence of any plausible explanation - that the $33,980 found in Chau's possession was drug money. He ordered its forfeiture.
"I do respect the letter that your father wrote to me, and the presence of your mother and partner here today.
"You are lucky to have a family to support you. I have reasonable confidence that you have learned from this experience and will do honour to your family in the future."
- NZPA
