Melbourne socialite and former reality television personality Brynne Edelsten has appeared in court to answer serious drug charges, following a police raid on her inner-city home where officers allegedly discovered commercial quantities of illicit substances.
Alleged 'Treasure Trove' of Drugs Found in Fitzroy Home
Victoria Police executed a search warrant at Edelsten's property in Fitzroy on Monday. They allege they found significant amounts of methamphetamine, ketamine, and a date rape drug inside the residence. The haul was described by Magistrate Brett Sonnet as a 'treasure trove of drugs', leading him to allege the 42-year-old is either a 'significant user or a significant trafficker'.
Edelsten, who cried during the hearing, has been charged with trafficking and possessing methamphetamine, and possessing a schedule four poison. She has denied any knowledge of the drugs allegedly found in her home and was visibly distressed throughout the proceedings.
Links to Wider Alleged Trafficking Ring
The court heard prosecutors argue that Edelsten is believed to be part of a wider drug trafficking operation. The investigation began in October, when police were tipped off about an alleged smuggling operation. It is alleged one of Edelsten's co-accused sent parcels containing methamphetamine from Victoria to Tasmania.
Forensic analysis of Edelsten's phone, which the court heard could take up to 12 months, is expected to reveal the full extent of her alleged involvement. When approached by media outside the courtroom, where she appeared dishevelled in thongs, shorts, and a baggy jumper, Edelsten referred all questions to her lawyer.
A Tumultuous History and Bail Conditions
This is not Edelsten's first encounter with drug charges. She was dramatically arrested and charged with trafficking and possessing 'ice' in May 2021, though those charges were dropped in April 2022. Edelsten first came to public attention after moving from America in 2008 and marrying the late, eccentric multi-millionaire Australian businessman Geoffrey Edelsten in November 2009.
Her mother joined the recent hearing via video link from Arizona, stating she would be willing to travel to Melbourne to support her daughter. Edelsten was granted bail on the strict condition that she reports to a police station three days a week as the case proceeds.
