A young bodybuilder has been sentenced after he was caught smuggling drugs into prison inside his anal cavity for the second time.
Christos Panagakos, 25-years-old, was caught when the Ice and Valium fell out of his bum during a search on his way to Capricornia Correctional Centre via Mackay Watch-house in Queensland.
He had been sentenced for a previous offense the same day and had the drugs concealed inside his body during sentencing, The Morning Bulletin reported.
Panagakos fronted Mackay Magistrates Court via video link from prison on Wednesday and was sentenced to four months jail for his latest offense.
It was also revealed in court Panagakos was caught for a similar offense at Ipswich police station in July 2015, when he smuggled a bag of drugs inside his anal cavity.
Level Up Your Fitness: Join our 💪 strong community in Fitness Volt Newsletter. Get daily inspiration, expert-backed workouts, nutrition tips, the latest in strength sports, and the support you need to reach your goals. Subscribe for free!
On Wednesday he pleaded guilty to one count of drug possession for the 2015 offense and 2 counts of drug possession for the 2017 offenses.
Defence solicitor Mark Williams said Panagakos regretted his behavior.
“He instructs the reason why he did what he did was simply to reduce his stress and anxiety about going to prison,’ Mr Williams said.
But he recognizes that not only were his actions just extremely stupid, to use his words, but they were very contrary to the generous discounts that his honor Justice Henry had given him in sentencing.”
Panagakos read out a letter over video, in which he said he’d be seeking professional help:
“Since being in custody I’ve had the opportunity to reflect on the nature of my offending behaviour,” he said.
“What is apparent is that I use drugs to self-medicate during stressful situations that I have difficulty coping with.
“I now realize this has been cowardly on my behalf and I’m simply running away from problems rather than dealing with them in a mature manner.”
Panagakos said he was “truly sorry” and he’d had a “wake up call” after a “long hard look” at himself while in prison.
Mr. Nolan took into account timely guilty pleas and Panagakos’ efforts at rehabilitation while in custody, among other factors.