A Poyntzpass man who was discovered to have cannabis and a “taser like device” at his home has been handed a suspended prison sentence.
The 23-year-old’s barrister told court: “He instructs that he bought the device as a torch some years ago and was unaware that is was a taser, but I am sure that your worship will be sceptical.”
Michael Maguire, of Brannock Meadows, appeared for sentencing on possession of Class B and possession of a prohibited weapon at Armagh Magistrates’ Court, sitting at Newry, on Tuesday.
Prosecution outlined that on December 16, of last year, police conducted a search under warrant of the defendant’s home.
During this, a small quantity of cannabis, approximately 11 grams, and a “taser like device” were recovered.
When questioned, Maguire admitted to buying this device as a torch and was not aware that it could discharge electricity.
Defence barrister Conor Coulter stated: “He instructs that he bought the device as a torch some years ago and was unaware that is was a taser, but I am sure that your worship will be sceptical.
“The vast majority of his record is for road traffic offences. There is no suggestion of anything sinister as this device was found in the bottom of a drawer in his home.”
He added: “I ask that he is given maximum credit for the way in which he met the matter. He has not appeared in front of your worship for anything similar.”
District Judge Eamonn King sentenced Maguire to three months in prison suspended for two years and ordered that he pay a fine of £200, along with the offender’s levy of £15.
