A Craigavon teenager caught with cannabis the day after being sentenced to a probation order has been ordered to complete 80 hours of community service.
The 19-year-old’s legal representative told the court he “had issues with addiction which he is now belatedly addressing”.
William Geary, of Parkmore, pleaded guilty to possession of a Class B drug at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
Court heard that on January 12, at around 9.30pm, a search was conducted of a Volkswagen Passat in the Craigavon area.
During this, the defendant produced a quantity of cannabis from his underwear to police.
Geary was told he would be reported and during a notebook interview, he made full admissions.
It was heard that this offence occurred just one day after the teen had been handed a probation order.
Defence counsel stated: “He made full admission at the scene, he was fully co-operative.
“He has had his issues with addiction which he is now belatedly addressing.”
He added: “All of his record relates to offences committed when he was under 18. It is concerning that he committed this a day after he was sentenced at this court, It shows a level of, should I say, immaturity.
“His offences started in the summer of 2017 when he lost a friend but this is no excuse.”
Court was informed Geary also had a suspended sentence hanging over his head and had been assessed by probation as being considered a medium risk of reoffending.
Defence counsel said: “This was a very modest amount of drugs which would normally be dealt with by way of a fine.”
Deputy District Judge Liam McStay stated: “You have indicated that you are dealing with your issues with drugs so I am going to allow you.”
Geary was sentenced to complete 80 hours of community service.
