Sound recordist working at Open Championship fined after being caught with cocaine in pub

A sound recordist working at the Open has been fined £500 for possessing cocaine in a St Andrews pub.

Max Muehlen, 32, of White Oak Avenue, Rosenda, California, was freelancing at the event when he was caught with cocaine at the Victoria Cafe.

Depute fiscal depute John Malpass said: “Around 8pm on July 12, security staff checked the toilets.

“As they entered they could hear snorting noises coming from one of the cubicles.

“The staff member asked for the cubicle door to be opened and the accused was found within.

“White powder was also found within the cubicle.”

The court heard Muehlen was found with 0.9 grams of cocaine, with a value of £45.

Solicitor David Bell said: “He was on a night out and met someone by chance and bought some cocaine from them.

“He tells me he’s not a regular drug user and he does not have an ongoing problem with drugs.

“He made a stupid mistake he’s paid a daily rate and has missed out in that due to the time he’s spent in custody.”

Muehlen admitted possessing cocaine and was fined £500.