Man tried importing meth from U.S. via dark web

A man named Gerardo Penna is on trial for trying to import methamphetamine, known as ice, from America. He has admitted to drug trafficking but denies trying to bring in a large quantity of the drug. The ACT Supreme Court is hearing his case. Police intercepted a package of methamphetamine shipped from California in 2021. They replaced the drugs before it arrived in Sydney. An undercover officer, posing as a delivery driver, delivered the package to a woman who had agreed to receive it. During the trial, the woman testified that she was involved in the crime with Mr. Penna and another person. She said Mr. Penna was responsible for the finances and ordering the drugs. She claimed her role was to receive the package in exchange for free drugs. The woman explained her history with ice, starting daily use in 2019. She contacted Mr. Penna for a steady supply. They had known each other for years, and she admitted that he was both a friend and her dealer. After the drugs were discovered, police began listening to conversations between the pair. The woman stated that she delayed opening the parcel, which had a misspelled name on it. Police monitored the situation using a listening device in the package. She was arrested shortly after receiving it, and Mr. Penna was identified as the intended recipient of the drugs.