SINGAPORE — Jevdic Dorde, a 40-year-old former assistant professor at the National University of Singapore (NUS), has been sentenced to a year in prison for drug-related offences. Dorde pleaded guilty on 11 December 2023 to charges of consuming drugs and possessing drug paraphernalia after his arrest during a Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) raid on 4 August 2023.
Details of the Offences
During the raid on Dorde’s apartment, authorities discovered straws, a rubber tube, and a glass utensil, all of which Dorde admitted were used for inhaling methamphetamine, known locally as ‘Ice’. He has a history of using drugs, indicating that his cannabis consumption started in early 2020, reportedly smoking up to three joints daily.
Health Issues and Mitigation
- Dorde suffers from major depression and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
- He claimed to use cannabis to alleviate side effects from his ADHD medication, such as insomnia and irritability.
Defence lawyer Gino Hardial Singh argued that Dorde was not a clinical addict but rather self-medicating. However, Deputy Public Prosecutor Cheah Wenjie cautioned against normalising drug use for those with mental health issues.
NUS and Employment Termination
In light of Dorde’s legal troubles, NUS has confirmed that his employment has been terminated. A spokesperson highlighted that all staff are expected to adhere to high standards of conduct and comply with Singapore’s laws.
Legal Context and Penalties
Under Singapore’s Misuse of Drugs Act, the penalties for drug consumption can range from one to ten years imprisonment along with hefty fines. The use of drug utensils can also lead to additional jail time and fines, underscoring the country’s stringent anti-drug policies.