A Craigavon man who admitted cultivating cannabis in his home has been ordered to complete 12 months probation.
The 42-year-old barrister conceded that his client had an “horrendous record” but pointed out that it had been seven years since his last conviction.
Charles Thomas Ward, of Moyraverty Court, appeared for sentencing on cultivating cannabis, possession of Class B and possession of Class C at Craigavon Magistrates’ Court on Friday.
Prosecution outlined that on February 26, police conducted a search of the defendant’s home during which two cannabis plants, scales and approximately 73 pregabalin tablets were seized.
Ward was not at the property at the time but later attended Lurgan Police Station voluntarily with his solicitor. An interview was conducted during which certain admissions were made.
Defence barrister David McKeown conceded that his client had an “horrendous record” but pointed out that it had been seven years since his last conviction.
He stated that Ward had turned to theses substances whilst going through a “stressful” period, and Mr McKeown asked that the defendant was given credit for his early plea and admissions.
District Judge Bernie Kelly commented: “You do have a very poor record for drugs offences…the only positive is that you have remained out of trouble for a lengthy period of time.”
Ward was sentenced to a 12 month probation order.
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