A Beechworth man who police suspected was trying to sell drugs in Dean Street was found carrying two illegal weapons.
They later uncovered $7000 in cash in a room at an Olive Street residence where he occasionally stayed.
Police checks carried out soon after Damon Breen's arrest early on February 3 revealed that he was known for carrying "edged weapons".
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The unemployed man, 23, of Lower Stanley Road, has pleaded guilty in Albury Local Court to two charges of possess or use a prohibited weapon without a permit and deal with property suspected to be the proceeds of crime.
The reason was simple, he had explained.
"The accused claims to arm himself for protection as he has been bashed many times in the past," police said.
"Police believe this is likely connected to being involved in the supply of illicit drugs."
The court was told that police saw Breen talking to another man at the back of a car in Dean Street, outside the Albion Hotel, about 12.10am.
A few minutes later, police spoke to a "defensive" Breen outside the Zed Bar.
When searched, Breen was found to be carrying a trench knife and a pair of knuckledusters.
He will be sentenced on July 14.
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