A Craigavon man has appeared in court after £10,000 worth of cannabis and over 1,000 pregabalin tablets were seized by police at his home.
The 30-year-old was denied bail, despite his mother offering her support and saying: “I know he is six-foot-three but I will still give him a slap in the face.”
Stephen John McCann, 30, of Drumellan Court, Moyraverty appeared charged with possession of Class B, possession of Class B with intent to supply, possession of Class C and possession of Class C with intent to supply at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Friday, where he appeared via videolink from Maghaberry.
A constable outlined that on December 4, during a search of the defendant’s home, police had recovered £10,ooo worth of cannabis and over 1,000 pregabalin tablets.
He added that there was also dealing paraphernalia at the property, with McCann appearing to have Craigavon cannabis branding on some of the items.
The constable stated: “We believe there are no conditions which would prevent him getting involved in drugs supply and he would wish to recoup the losses he has had.”
Defence counsel commented that there is likely to be a delay in the case as the seized drugs would have to be analysed.
He added: “He accepted that the cannabis belongs to him, this shows a certain level of responsibility.
“You say there are no conditions which would prevent this but he has family support, his mother is in court and we are suggesting that he reside with her in Lurgan.”
Giving evidence, McCann’s mother, a ward nurse at Craigavon Area Hospital, stated: “I did not realise the severity, I am here to help him and I know I can help him.
“I know that there is a rehab centre in Kilkenny and there is Cuan Mhuire in Newry, I have helped alcoholics and drugs addicts.”
She added: “I know I am his mother but I can be very firm, I know he is six-foot-three but I will still give him a slap in the face.”
Defence counsel said: “My client is employed, he is not sitting idle. His mother, sister and partner are all in court today and will all support him.
“His last offence goes back to 2016, he does not accept the pregabalin charge as it was found in an outhouse. He has five children.”
He added: “This case will take over a year, it will go to the Crown Court. He plans on living with his mother, out of the way.
“I am just asking that your worship give him a chance on bail.”
District Judge Steven Keown stated: “This is a serious case, a large scale police investigation. I am not concerned that he does not have family support.
“My concern relates to the defendant’s record and the nature of this offence. Bail is refused due to fear of reoffending.”
The case was adjourned until January 3 for an update.
