An Armagh man claims that he used cannabis as pain relief for a vascular disease, a court has heard.
The 61-year-old’s solicitor explained that although his client was a butcher by trade he had been unemployed for some time.
James McManus, of Castle Street, pleaded guilty to possession of a Class B drug at Armagh Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
Prosecution outlined that on January 7, during a search of the defendant’s home, police discovered two small quantities of cannabis.
When interviewed, McManus made full and frank admissions to the offence.
It was heard that the cannabis seized weighed approximately five grams and had a street value of around £50.
Defence solicitor Jarlaith Fields stated: “This was a minor value. Mr McManus is unemployed and currently survives on benefits.
“He is a butcher by trade. He has not worked in some time due to a vascular disease and uses the cannabis, he instructs, as pain relief.”
He added: “I ask that he is given credit for his guilty plea. This was a small amount which was for personal use.”
McManus was ordered to pay a fine of £150, along with the offender’s levy of £15, within 12 weeks.
