A Lurgan man who used drugs as an “immature escapism” from his situation of caring for his brother has appeared in court.
The 58-year-old’s barrister stated the defendant had stopped working as a skilled labourer as he had to care for his brother who has “a number of issues”.
Jeffrey William Rowland, of Balmoral Drive, appeared for sentencing on possession of Class A and possession of Class B at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.
Prosecution outlined that on August 12, during a search of the defendant’s home, police located three Ecstasy tablets and three bags of Mephedrone powder.
During a notebook interview, Rowland made full admission to possession of the drugs.
He told police he had purchased the Ecstasy tablets for £15 and had been given the Mephedrone by a friend. Both, he claimed, were for personal use.
Defence barrister Conor Lunny stated: “Whilst he is a skilled labourer he has had to become a full time carer for his brother, who has a number of issues.
“Despite his age, this appears to have been a form of immature escapism from his situation as a carer.”
District Judge Amanda Brady commented: “This was a modest amount of drugs and he has no record.”
Rowland was ordered to pay a fine of £125, along with the offender’s levy of £15, within 12 weeks.
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