New South Wales Consolidated Acts

CONFISCATION OF PROCEEDS OF CRIME ACT 1989 - SECT 31A

31A Evidence as to value of drugs and other matters

(1) In proceedings for an application for a drug proceeds order, a member of the NSW Police Force, a member of the Australian Federal Police or a Customs officer may give evidence (whether in person or in a statement tendered to the court by the prosecution under this Division)--

(a) as to the market value, at the time of a drug trafficking offence in relation to a substance, or substantially similar substances, and

(b) as to the amount, or the range of amounts, ordinarily paid for the doing of a similar or substantially similar act or thing to the offence.

(2) The evidence may be given by a person who is experienced in the investigation of indictable offences under (or similar to offences under) the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 .

(3) Any such person may give evidence, to the best of his or her information, knowledge and belief--

(a) as to the amount that was the market value of a prohibited drug or prohibited plant within the meaning of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 at a particular time or during a particular period, or

(b) as to the amount, or the range of amounts, ordinarily paid at a particular time, or during a particular period, for the doing of an act or thing in relation to any such prohibited drug or prohibited plant,

despite any rule of law or practice relating to hearsay evidence and the testimony is, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, evidence of the matter testified to.