A Craigavon man who was found with £250 worth of cocaine has been handed community service, with a district judge saying he had had a “bit of luck” with how the prosecution proceeded with his case.
The 31-year-old’s barrister claimed his client “always stated that this was a case of a group of friends who bought the drugs together” and added: “He is very fortunate of the view taken by the prosecution.”
Anthony McGill, 31, of Drumgask Road, appeared for sentencing on possession of Class A at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
Prosecution outlined that on November 1, at 4pm, police stopped a Volkswagen Bora with two male occupants on Union Street, Lurgan.
During a search of the males, officers observed something in the tracksuit bottoms of the defendant, who had been the driver.
From his pocket, he produced a packet of white powder and five further packets were located inside the vehicle.
During interview, McGill confirmed that the substance in the packaging was cocaine.
Prosecution stated the estimated value of the drugs seized was £250.
Defence barrister Aaron Thompson said: “Mr McGill has always stated that this was a case of a group of friends who bought the drugs together. He is very fortunate of the view taken by the prosecution.
“He had been working but recently lost his employment. He would accept that he has had a problem with cocaine over the last decade.”
District Judge Stephen Keown stated: “This is quite a serious simple possession. He has had a fair bit of luck with how the prosecution proceeded.
“I will put you into work for the community which is scourged with drugs.”
McGill was sentenced to 150 hours of community service.
