Former Deal or No Deal host Andrew O’Keefe was granted bail after being arrested for breaching court orders and being found in possession of methamphetamine. Police prosecutor Paul Henningham argued against bail, citing O’Keefe’s history of domestic violence and potential danger to the community. O’Keefe was allegedly drug-affected and driving on a suspended license when police stopped him, and he was found with an ice pipe in his possession.
Despite the strong prosecution case against him, Magistrate Jacqueline Milledge granted O’Keefe bail on the condition that he report to police three times per week, undergo daily urine testing, and abstain from drugs and alcohol. His sister also had to provide a $1000 surety for his release. O’Keefe walked out of Waverley Police Station with court documents and a few possessions. This legal setback is the latest in a series for O’Keefe, who has been open about his struggles with drug issues and mental health problems.
O’Keefe is scheduled to appear in the District Court to appeal previous convictions for domestic violence and drug possession charges. He is also due to return to court on the fresh charges on August 14. Despite these legal troubles, O’Keefe continues to receive support from family and friends. If anyone is in need of support, they can contact Lifeline on 131 114 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 for assistance.
Sergeant Henningham emphasized the seriousness of O’Keefe’s actions, stating that he had knowingly gone to an address he was prohibited from attending while under existing court orders. The claim that there could have been a burglar at the residence was deemed “an extraordinary set of circumstances” by the prosecutor. The positive result for methamphetamine in O’Keefe’s system, along with driving on a suspended license, further contributed to the opposition to bail.
The conditions set by the magistrate for O’Keefe’s bail were strict, requiring regular check-ins with police, drug testing, and abstinence from substances. Despite these conditions, O’Keefe’s family stood by him, with his sister providing a surety for his release. O’Keefe’s appearance in court was marked by his drug-affected state, with glassy, blood-shot eyes and the presence of drug paraphernalia in his possession. These factors, combined with his history of domestic violence, contributed to the prosecutor’s arguments against bail.
As O’Keefe awaits his upcoming court appearances, his personal struggles are met with legal consequences. His public battle with drug addiction and mental health issues continues to be a focal point of his legal troubles. Despite the challenges he faces, O’Keefe remains surrounded by a support system that includes family and friends who stand by him during this difficult time. The upcoming court dates will determine the outcome of his legal challenges and provide insight into his ongoing journey towards recovery.
