SALE man Matthew Jones, allegedly known as ‘Chicken Man’, faced the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday and Thursday after being charged with importing a marketable quantity of a border controlled drug, trafficking cocaine, possessing MDMA, possessing methylamphetamine and committing an indictable offence whilst on bail.
He’s been remanded in custody.
Arrested in Strathmore in Melbourne’s north-west on Wednesday by the VIPER Taskforce, the 39-year-old’s charges follow the execution of four warrants at properties in Sale (2), Silverleaves, Strathmore and Patterson Lakes.
It is alleged detectives subsequently seized a range of drugs from the properties including cocaine, methylamphetamine and MDMA.
The investigation commenced in April this year following a coronial enquiry into a drug overdose. Investigators subsequently identified an entity nicknamed ‘Chicken Man’, who was allegedly importing and trafficking cocaine via encrypted messaging platforms online.
Detective Inspector Craig Darlow of the VIPER Taskforce said they will follow up every possible avenue of enquiry to detect those involved in drug related harm.
“The community can rest assured that we have teams of dedicated detectives working around the clock who are intent on targeting the drug dealers, traffickers, and manufacturers causing the most harm in our community,” he said.
“The repercussions of becoming involved in trafficking illicit drugs are life altering, with the maximum punishment life imprisonment.
“Victoria Police has zero tolerance for drug traffickers, especially those who prey on people who are addicted and vulnerable.
“Make no mistake – those who deliberately corrupt the safety of the Victorian community with illicit drugs will be caught and presented before a court.”
