A “low-level gangster” who sneaked a loaded gun into a packed MCG will be sent a stern warning when sentenced for his actions.
He pleaded guilty after being found with a gun at the MCG during the highly anticipated AFL match between Collingwood and Carlton, observed by over 82,000 fans in April.
Magistrate Brett Sonnet shut down prospects of avoiding jail time, outlining a history of significant offences over the past three years.
Defence lawyer Emma Turnbull informed the court that Salma had no criminal record prior to 2022, a pivotal year marked by a series of traumatic events, including the loss of two siblings.
The court was told the accused began to suffer with substance abuse in the years following.
Ms Turnbull said Salma had undertaken as a “reckless, foolish and regrettable” set of circumstances by bringing the firearm into the MCG.
The court was told Salma had previously been charged with a string of offences including affray.
Mr Sonnet said it appeared Salma had been leading “the life of a low-level gangster”.
“It’s truly alarming that Victoria has reached a point where individuals believe it’s acceptable to bring a loaded firearm into the MCG,” he stated.
“The message must be unequivocally clear that those who deem it suitable to carry firearms in public need to understand that the court will enforce severe penalties.”
The police prosecutor emphasized that the community must be confident that bringing a firearm into a public space will lead to serious repercussions, regardless of the person’s intent or situation.
He said the sentence imposed must send a clear message that such conduct will not be tolerated.
Ms Turnbull said Salma was entitled to a significant discount for the speedy resolution to the matters.
The magistrate said he would receive the benefit for a plea of guilty “there’s no doubt about that”.
Salma has been in custody for 151 days and will return to court for sentencing on Friday.
