Man jailed for importing steroids

A former male model who ran a successful business selling illegally obtained human growth hormones and steroids has been jailed.

Brendan James Brophy, 28, pleaded guilty in the Supreme Court in Brisbane on Thursday to a string of drug-related charges, including seven counts of importing tier one goods and trafficking in dangerous drugs.

The court was told Brophy started his illegal business in July 2006, importing drugs from China, Dubai and the United Kingdom and selling them through a website he had created.

He used a number of aliases to receive payments from customers, and to obtain the shipments of illegal drugs.

When police raided his apartment at Ashmore on the Gold Coast in September 2006 they found 6.5 litres of liquid containing steroids and hormones, which had been intended for sale.

They also found a database on his home computer that revealed he had sent drugs to 34 customers since establishing his business, and that several more people were waiting to receive their orders.

Prosecutor Glen Cash said it was impossible to determine how much money Brophy had made but that police found almost $20,000 in cash in his apartment.

Mr Cash told the court that Brophy was arrested and released on bail shortly afterwards, but that he waited less than six months before he made another importation.

Defence barrister Tony Kimmins told the court his client had started importing again so he could fill orders he had not been able to meet prior to his arrest.

Mr Kimmins said Brophy had been threatened with physical violence if he did not deliver the drugs and that he feared for his safety.

The court was told Brophy is now remorseful for his actions, and that he is seeking to make his fortune in real estate.

Justice John Byrne sentenced Brophy to two and a half years' jail.

He ordered he be released on a two-year good behaviour bond after serving just six months behind bars.