The ex-manager of Sydney’s renowned brothel, A Touch of Class, Peter Lazaris, is set to appear in the Downing Centre Local Court next month, facing various charges following his apprehension in a drug investigation led by a specialized unit of the NSW Police. Authorities allege that the 55-year-old supplied a minimum of 45g of methylamphetamine from his Kingsgrove residence.
During a raid on his property in November 2022, law enforcement reportedly discovered real police uniforms, an offence punishable by a maximum two-year jail sentence. According to court documents, Lazaris is accused of having a "genuine NSW Police and Australian Federal Police uniform without a permit." Additionally, he faces charges of two counts of supplying methylamphetamine, possession of 55g of the drug, and possession of police uniforms without a permit. Lazaris intends to plead not guilty to these charges.
Thirteen other charges initially laid against Lazaris, including directing a criminal group, possessing illegal ammunition, and driving a vehicle with unauthorized police insignia, have been withdrawn by the police.
According to business records, Lazaris served as a director of the shell company that operated A Touch of Class from 2004 to 2009. In 2014, he provided evidence in the fraud case involving former politician Craig Thomson, explaining the checks conducted by A Touch of Class when the ex-federal MP used a union credit card at the brothel.
Following his arrest, Lazaris was released on strict bail conditions, including a $1 million deposit in the form of a Surry Hills property. Conditions include not going within 7km of the GPO building in Martin Place, avoiding the suburb of Campsie, entering a rehabilitation facility, and abstaining from alcohol. Lazaris is scheduled for a hearing at the Downing Centre Local Court on February 12.
