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Teenager caught with cannabis put on probation to help him ‘deal with your addictions’

Defendant warned if he did not co-operate probation would be replaced with immediate custody

Craigavon Courthouse

A Craigavon teenager has been sentenced to 12 months probation to “assist in dealing with your addictions”.

The 18-year-old was warned that if he did not co-operate this would be replaced with immediate custody.

William Geary, of Parkmore, pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of a Class B drug and possession of fireworks without a licence at the Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Friday.

District Judge Bernie Kelly said: “It is rather unfortunate that I do not have a pre-sentence report, as all of the offences occurred in 2017.

“These matters were deferred to find out if you could stay out of trouble.”

Defence counsel said: “The two charges that relate to drugs were in quantities less than half a cigarettes worth.”

He added: “They were all committed when Mr Geary was 17. If he was dealt with as a junior the sentence would be very much different.”

District Judge Kelly stated: “I am going to deal with these matters, as they are so serious there is only one penalty I can impose.”

Geary was sentenced to complete 12 months probation.

The district judge said: “This is to assist in dealing with your addictions. You must co-operate with probation and engage in any programme they deem necessary.

“If this comes back to court I will be replacing it with immediate custody.”

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