Two men have been jailed for drug related offences at Laganside Crown Court today, Monday, January 26.
Thomas Taggart, 39, was sentenced to six years and six months imprisonment after pleading guilty to possession of a class B controlled drug with intent to supply. Half of this sentence is to be served in custody and half on licence.
Barry McMoran, 50, was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment after pleading guilty to being concerned in the supply of a class A controlled drug, being concerned in the supply of a class B controlled drug and possession of a class B controlled drug with intent to supply. Half of this sentence to be served in custody and half on licence.
A police spokesperson said: “Police conducted a search of a shed in the Annaghnaboe Road area of Coalisland – close to the River Blackwater – in May 2024, during which over 200kgs of cannabis resin was found.
“Further police enquiries revealed that the cannabis had been transported into Northern Ireland on a ferry from Scotland in a trailer towed by a vehicle driven by Thomas Taggart.
“Barry McMoran was driving an accompanying vehicle and an examination of a mobile phone seized from McMoran also identified his involvement in the supply of cocaine.
“The Police Service of Northern Ireland remains committed to robustly and proactively pursuing those involved in drug supply, at all levels, arresting them and bringing them before the courts.
“If anyone has information about suspected drug dealing in their area please call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively information can be given anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.
“Anyone who thinks they might have a problem with alcohol and/or drugs and would like to get help can visit www.drugsandalcoholni.info . This also includes details of services available for those affected by someone else’s drinking and/or drug misuse.”
