[ad_1]
Anna Loren / Things
The man appeared in Papakura District Court on Wednesday.
A high-profile athlete facing multiple drug charges says he will lose career opportunities if his name is revealed.
The man, in his 30s, has denied possessing and importing methamphetamine in December 2019.
He is charged with possession of methamphetamine for supply and two counts of importing the controlled class A drug with others.
The athlete appeared in Papakura District Court on Wednesday seeking continued deletion of the name.
READ MORE:
* High-profile Kiwi athlete pleads not guilty to methamphetamine supply and import charges
The athlete’s attorney, Greg Bradford, said his client would face extreme hardship if named as he would lose job opportunities.
However, Crown Prosecutor Jessica Pridgeon said no evidence was presented on behalf of the athlete that he would face extreme hardship if named.
“When someone comes to court and asks the court to determine extreme hardship, you would expect the evidence to be before the court,” he said.
“There is no evidence that his position worsens than it would be if his name were published.”
Things and TVNZ also opposed the continued suppression of names.
Judge Richard McIlraith reserved his decision and indicated that he would provide his reasons in writing.
