ACT Policing has announced the sentencing of a 41-year-old man for his involvement in one of the largest illegal drug operations in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Thomas Eric Kelleher has received a prison term of nearly five years for his participation in a drug syndicate valued at over $8 million.
Kelleher has been sentenced to four years, 11 months, and 12 days in prison and will be eligible for parole in 2028. He, along with two accomplices, was apprehended in December 2023 following a collaborative investigation conducted by both ACT Policing and Victoria Police regarding the distribution of controlled and prescription substances.
During the proceedings at the ACT Supreme Court, it was revealed that the syndicate operated under the encrypted alias “OzPharmLabs,” functioning as an online pharmacy that shipped drugs nationwide using Australia Post. The group was found to possess anabolic steroids valued at $5.4 million, alongside $2.8 million worth of other controlled substances.
Authorities seized significant quantities of drugs, including 21 kilograms of tetrahydrocannabinol, estimated to be worth around $78,000, and 3.6 kilograms of psilocybin, valued at approximately $17,500.
By profession, Kelleher is a carpenter. He pleaded guilty in April of the previous year to multiple charges, including the supply of anabolic steroids and trafficking large commercial amounts of psilocybin and tetrahydrocannabinol, offenses that carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment.
The court heard that Kelleher stored the drugs at his residence in O’Connor and was responsible for the packaging of orders, with a dedicated room containing extensive shelving filled with pre-packaged tubs.
In her remarks during sentencing, Justice Louise Taylor emphasized that although Kelleher was not the mastermind behind the operation, he played a vital mid-level role that contributed significantly to the syndicate’s success. She noted that he had expressed remorse for his actions, referencing a letter in which he discussed his difficult upbringing and acknowledged that financial motivation drove his illicit activities.
Furthermore, Kelleher has since taken steps to dissuade young individuals from using steroids at his gym, recognizing the potential dangers associated with the drugs he distributed.
His non-parole term has been set at two years and three months, making him eligible for release in February 2028. One of Kelleher’s co-defendants, who reportedly had a more substantial role in the organization, has pleaded not guilty and is awaiting trial. Another accomplice, identified as a “runner,” has already received a sentence after entering a guilty plea.
