UPDATE: A 32-year-old man has walked free from Launceston Magistrates Court after authorities revealed his methamphetamine use had “destroyed his life, and that of his family.” Steele Chester Mansell, from Mayfield, faced multiple charges, including breaches of a family violence order, burglary, and stealing, after spending 124 days in custody.
The court session on January 7, 2024, saw Mansell change his pleas to guilty on several charges, with some dismissed. Prosecutor Anne Knox detailed a series of incidents, including a burglary at a Summerhill address on January 31, where Mansell stole tools from a parked ute. On February 19, he harassed his ex-partner at her Newnham home, causing distress and damaging property.
Magistrate Sharon Cure highlighted the destructive path of Mansell’s drug use, stating emphatically, “You can’t control that. It’s destroyed his life, and that of his family.” Mansell’s recent diagnosis of an autoimmune disease has made the stakes even higher, as a return to drugs could pose serious health risks.
Mansell was sentenced to nine months in jail, backdated to September 5, 2023, allowing for immediate release. The remainder of his sentence was suspended for 18 months. In addition, he received a 15-month driving disqualification and was labeled a persistent family violence offender.
This ruling marks a significant moment in Mansell’s life, as he expressed a newfound commitment to rehabilitation. His lawyer, Mark Doyle, emphasized the long journey ahead, acknowledging the impact of drugs on his client’s life and family.
As the community processes this case, it serves as a stark reminder of the devastating effects of addiction and the importance of support systems for those struggling with substance abuse. The imposition of a 12-month family violence order signifies a critical step in addressing Mansell’s past actions while promoting a path to recovery.
Stay tuned for further developments on this urgent story as it unfolds.
