Joshua Toole, the brother of the former police minister Paul Toole, has been handed a six-year jail sentence for his involvement in a significant ice supply ring operating in the Hunter region of New South Wales. Toole’s sentencing comes after he was caught in an undercover police sting operation aimed at dismantling drug supply networks across the Central Coast and Hunter regions.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Toole used the alias ‘Smiley’ to mask his identity while engaging in multiple drug deals, primarily involving methamphetamine. His co-offender, Paul Colvin, was also sentenced for his part in the syndicate, which facilitated two drug exchanges involving Toole.
Despite the legal repercussions, family members, including Toole’s sister Carmel Vogelsang, have expressed their ongoing support for him. Vogelsang shared insights into Toole’s struggles post-release from prison, highlighting challenges such as job loss, relationship breakdowns, and family health issues that contributed to his involvement in drugs. She mentioned that Toole has been sober since living under house arrest and has repeatedly expressed remorse for his actions.
Toole’s sentence includes a non-parole period of three years and six months, with the possibility of release in December 2026 after receiving a 25% discount for an early guilty plea. The court’s decision marks a significant development in the case, shedding light on the consequences faced by individuals involved in illicit drug operations, even those with familial ties to prominent figures.