NSW Police and Counter-Terrorism Minister Yasmin Catley’s brother has been charged with several drug related offences.
Officers were patrolling Jesmond in the state’s north about 10:30pm on Friday when they stopped a vehicle on Heaton Street and spoke to the 62-year-old driver.
After searching the vehicle, police discovered an amount of cash, 8.06g of methylamphetamine, and cannabis.
The man was arrested and taken to Waratah Police Station where he was charged with supply prohibited drug and three counts of possess prohibited drug.
The items found in his car were seized and will be forensically examined.
The minister confirmed in a statement the man charged was her brother.
“A member of my family has struggled with drug addiction for many years,” Ms Catley said.
“As a consequence he has become distanced from members of my family, including me.
“Drugs destroy relationships, even the closest family bonds.”
She refused to elaborate any further as the case is before the courts.
It is understood Ms Catley disclosed the addiction issues in her family to Commissioner Karen Webb when she took on the police portfolio, in case he ever got arrested.
Her brother was granted conditional bail to appear before Newcastle Local Court on March 11.
