Former 'Deal or No Deal' Host Andrew O'Keefe Arrested After Suspected Heroin Overdose
Former Channel Seven star Andrew O'Keefe was arrested on Monday after being revived from a suspected heroin overdose at a party in Sydney's eastern suburbs. O'Keefe was taken into custody at Rose Bay Police Station and charged with breach of bail and drug possession.
The 52-year-old was reportedly seen driving erratically to the police station, where he got into an argument with photographers before being escorted by officers into the building.
He was then seen walking out the rear exit of the station accompanied by three officers who took him away in the back of a police car.
Police said they located prohibited drugs in a vehicle nearby after O’Keefe’s arrest. The drugs were sent for further analysis.
A Troubled History
The incident is the latest in a string of legal troubles for the troubled former TV star. O’Keefe has faced numerous charges in recent years, including domestic violence, drug possession, and driving offenses.
In January, O'Keefe was found guilty of three counts of domestic violence-related assault, twice contravening an AVO, and two charges of possessing a prohibited drug. He was sentenced to an 18-month community corrections order and fined $800 for the drug offenses.
In September 2021, O’Keefe was found to have pushed a woman into a doorway, punched her with the heel of the hand, forced her to the ground, before kicking her in the thigh and using his nails to scratch her chest. While he admitted to the argument, he claimed he accidentally fell into the woman due to their proximity.
A History of Drug Use and Legal Trouble
In addition to his domestic violence convictions, O’Keefe has a history of drug use and legal trouble. Last month, he was seen smiling as he left court on other charges, including intimidation and breaching an apprehended violence order. Police alleged O’Keefe threatened a man at an address in Point Piper shortly before he was stopped while driving and allegedly found in possession of a crack pipe.
O'Keefe also pleaded guilty to driving with drugs in his system in December 2023 after being stopped in his Mercedes C200 in Point Piper, in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, in January of the same year. He was charged with one count of driving a vehicle with illicit drugs present in his blood. He was released from court without a conviction.
A Fall from Grace
The latest arrest is a further blow to O'Keefe's reputation. He was once a popular TV personality, hosting shows like 'Deal or No Deal' and 'The Chase.' However, his career has been tarnished by his legal troubles. O'Keefe's fall from grace is a stark reminder of the dangers of drug addiction and the consequences of engaging in criminal behavior. O’Keefe’s arrest has prompted renewed calls for help for those struggling with addiction and for better support systems for those affected by domestic violence.
A Bleak Future
The future looks bleak for O'Keefe, who is facing a mounting number of charges and legal battles. His recent overdose and arrest are a clear indication that he is in a difficult situation. It remains to be seen whether he will be able to turn his life around. The public will be closely watching his case as it progresses through the courts.
It is essential to remember that addiction is a complex issue, and people struggling with it require support and compassion. It is also crucial to stand against domestic violence in all its forms and to ensure that victims have access to the necessary resources and assistance.
