A Lurgan man who was caught in possession of cannabis has been handed a two-year conditional discharge.
The judge told the 24-year-old: “There will be an entry for drugs offences on your record and that is punishment enough”.
Emmet McGeown, of Cluandara, pleaded guilty to possession of class B at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court.
It was heard that on January 28, at 7.45pm, police on patrol of the Ardmore Road, Derrytrasna, spotted a Mazda 2 parked in the Bayshore Car Park.
As officers approached the vehicle they detected a strong smell of cannabis.
The defendant was in the passenger seat of the car, during a search joint was found in the door pocket on his side.
When interviewed, McGeown admitted to rolling the joint with cannabis and to being in possession of the substance.
Defence barrister Conor Coulter stated: “The only reason this went to the day of the contest was that it was hoped that it could be alternatively disposed of.
“However, this was not possible as he had a previous caution for the same offence”.
He continued: “This was a difficult time in Mr McGeown’s life he lost four friends in the space of 18 months.
“He instructs he was in a low mood, was working in a factory and was going through depression”.
Mr Coulter stated: “He has now engaged with his GP working to set goals, he is now in more fulfilling and enjoyable employment.
“He has also completely ceased drug used since this incident”.
District Judge Mark McGarrity said: “I am going to give you maximum credit for your plea of guilty given the way in which the matter has been dealt with.
“There will be an entry for drugs offences on your record and that is punishment enough”.
McGeown was handed a conditional discharge for two years.
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