A 37-year-old George Street resident will stay in custody until Thursday after illness delayed his plea hearing on illegal firearm charges.

Jamala Joseph reported feeling unwell during his Monday appearance before Senior Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel, prompting the court to defer the matter. He is accused of possessing an unlicensed .25 Beretta pistol and two rounds of ammunition.

Police said Joseph was arrested during an early morning traffic stop on November 14, when Grays Farm officers searched his vehicle and found the handgun and ammo. He is set to return to court on November 20 to answer the charges.